The fantastic freshman season for Halim Habib '26 continues. 

Habib, who won the All-Catholic individual golf championship last fall, finished third in the New York State Catholic High School Athletic Association championship on Monday to earn a trip to the New York State Federation Tournament this weekend at Long Island's famed Bethpage Black. 

"I am excited for the opportunity to win the state individual title," said Habib, an Amherst native. "I am really excited for the challenge to play on the the toughest courses in the country, especially playing from the pro tees. This high school has exceeded my expectations for golf and I am really looking forward to my next three years at Canisius."

Habib shot a 77 at James Baird State Park in Pleasant Valley in downstate's Dutchess County. 

"I feel I played well but I left a couple shots on the table," said Habib. "My best shots during the round were my short game and the birdie putt I made on the last hole to secure third place by one shot."

The Federation championships, which bring together the champions of the state public, Catholic, private and independent school associations, will be held at Bethpage State Park on Saturday and Sunday. Bethpage's Black Course has hosted the U.S. Open and is regarded as one of the very best public courses in the country. 

Habib is the only member of the Monsignor Martin Athletic Assocation to qualify for the Federation tournament. 

Connor Jackson '26 of Williamsville shot a 79 and was among a six-way tie for sixth place, the final qualifying spot for the Federation tournament; Michael McConie of Long Island's Chaminade earned the spot in a playoff. 

The Crusaders, which shared the All-Catholic Team Championship last fall, had the strongest performance among Monsignor Martin teams in the tournament. Brayden Sheehan '24 of Orchard Park tied for 16th with an 82; McNamara Quinn '24 of Glenwood tied for 19th at 83; Sam Atkinson '25 of Orchard Park tied for 33rd at 88.