by Colin Regan, Sports Information Coordinator and Upper School Faculty

Bennett Espenshade '24 accomplished a significant milestone in his post-Gilman athletic career when he took victory in the 36-hole championship match of the MSGA's 104th Maryland Amateur Golf Championship at Elkridge Country Club, held June 5–8, 2025. Espenshade, who just finished his freshman season at Rutgers University, prevailed 2&1 over his opponent in the deciding match. With his victory, Espenshade has earned official qualification for the USGA's 2025 U.S. Amateur Golf Championship, which will take place at The Olympic Club in San Francisco, California, in mid-August.

While winning the Maryland Amateur was an outstanding accomplishment and a reflection of Espenshade's hard work, the victory was made even more special for the young alumnus and the Gilman community by the fact that former teammate and fellow alumnus Brayden Garrison '24 served as his caddy for the event and was able to celebrate alongside him. Additionally, Gilman faculty and varsity golf coaches Mike Wallace and L.J. Shapiro '16 were in attendance and cheered on Espenshade throughout the tournament.

"Winning the Maryland Amateur at a place so close to my heart is such an amazing feeling, and having Brayden on the bag by my side couldn't have been more special. He's caddied for me before, and we make a great duo. He helped me stay really calm the whole week," shared Espenshade. "Seeing all of my Gilman coaches and some of my former teammates out supporting me was incredible, and it helped propel me through the finishing stretch. The Maryland Amateur has always been a dream of mine, and I couldn't be more excited to pick up the win and move on to the United States Amateur."

Congratulations, Bennett, and good luck this August!