This past week, Russ Cunningham, head coach of the Oakland men’s and women’s golf teams, announced the signing of six highly anticipated recruits.

“This recruiting class will make an immediate impact on our team,” Cunningham said. “Each of these student-athletes combine a winning attitude with a fierce competitive drive which is what has brought them so much success on the course and in the classroom.”

Joining the women’s program next season will be Danielle Crilley, Jazmin Haque, Julia Montgomery and Morgan Smith.

Crilley was a member of three state championship teams at Lansing Catholic Central, qualifying for the 2012 USGA girl’s amateur.

“Danielle is a pure ball striker with unlimited potential,” Cunningham said.

Haque earned all-state honors in 2012 while playing at Rochester High.

“Jazmin truly represents the term student-athlete,” Cunningham said. “She has a great work ethic, so as she gets stronger and gains confidence, she will only get better.”

Montgomery, out of Utica Eisenhower, was the Golfweek junior Midwest spring player of the year last season.

“Julia has shown she can compete with and beat the best players in the Midwest,” Cunningham said. “Her presence on the team will help make everyone better.”

Smith led her team to four straight state championships while representing Mona Shores.

“Morgan has a natural feel for the game and she’s only shown us a glimpse of what’s in store for the future,” Cunningham said.

For the men’s team, Jacob Johnson and Alex Waelchli signed on to wear the Oakland colors.

 “I am very pleased that Alex and Jacob decided to join our program,” Cunningham said.

“They both have similar skill sets and are well-rounded student-athletes as evident by their all-state recognition, academic success, and other numerous honors and awards.”

Johnson was the 2012 Michigan PGA Junior Tour player of the year while playing for Lansing Catholic Central. Waelchli shot a 67 at an AJGA qualifier this past season.

All six of these players will not suit up for the Grizzlies until next fall. Until then, they will finish their senior seasons at their respective high schools.

Contact Sports Editor Timothy Pontzer via email at [email protected] or follow him on Twitter @timothy_pontzer