On Sept. 28, the Payton-Jones golf team reclaimed their Chicago Public League (CPL) City Championships title at Indian Boundary Golf Course, winning their first title since 2018 and capping a satisfying end to the season.
The team comfortably beat out the Lane Tech and Whitney Young teams with a combined score of 310 and four golfers placing in the top ten.
“We were winning pretty much the whole time,” said Mason Fernandez ‘26. “The team was confident, and everything clicked that day.”
The win holds a special significance for Jones seniors, who played their final round of golf for the school at City Championships.
“I’ve been playing golf for a long time, so it’s definitely sad to think this is my last year,” said Fernandez.
This is the Jones-Payton team’s first win at City Championships in over half a decade, making it a milestone achievement for many older players.
“Being my first true city win, it meant a lot. It’s something I’ve always wanted to accomplish,” said Jack Condne ‘26. “I’ve played on a few different teams and hadn’t been able to do it before, so to finally get that win was really special. It’s something we’ve all worked toward for years.”
Although this season was, at times, more tumultuous than others, the seniors view it as an overall success.
“We had some rough days, but a lot of great ones too. We finished undefeated in the Chicago Public regular season, played some tough tournaments against really competitive teams — even ones that placed top three in 3A boys golf. We faced tough courses, but everyone stepped up when it mattered. I’m really proud of what we accomplished,” said Jack Condne ‘26.
Players credit the team’s culture that Jones cultivates as a defining reason for their success.
“We always remember it’s just a game — it doesn’t define us. That’s what sets us apart from other teams that might get frustrated or lose their cool,” said Condne.
Although this may be the end of the road for Jones golf this season– the team did not advance past the 3A state championships– the team’s players say they are proud of their accomplishments this year.
“We pulled off a good win,” said Fernandez. “There were definitely ups and downs, but overall, it’s been a strong season.”
