April 29, 2024

Southwestern tees off golf season

By CHEYENNE ROCHE
The Spartans have competed in two invitationals already this season. Led by Sofus Lyck and Isac Fredriksson, the team placed third at the first and 15th in the second.

The Spartans have competed in two invitationals already this season. Led by Sofus Lyck and Isac Fredriksson, the team placed third at the first and 15th in the second. (SOUTHWESTERN photo)

Under seasoned coach Doug North in his ninth season, the Southwestern Spartans golf team is teeing off a new season with a young team.

With a focus on honing fundamentals and meticulous attention to detail, North underscores the importance of staying true to the basics.

Familiarity with the district championship course offers a strategic advantage, emphasizing the team’s commitment to steady progress and mastery of the essentials.

The team’s opening event was held last weekend at the Graceland University Spring Invitational held at Mozingo Lake GCS in Maryville, Missouri.

Competing against formidable opponents in the NAIA and NJCAA divisions, the Spartans demonstrated their prowess on the greens.

In the team leaderboard, the Spartans secured a commendable position, finishing tied for third with a total score of +52. While facing tough competition, they maintained their competitive edge throughout the tournament, reflecting their dedication and resilience on the course.

Individually, Sofus Lyck and Isac Fredriksson represented the Spartans with excellence, both finishing with a score of +9. Their consistent performance contributed significantly to the team’s overall standing, highlighting their talent and commitment to the sport.

Despite the challenges faced during the tournament, the Spartan golfers exhibited determination and sportsmanship, embodying the spirit of the game. As they continue their season, they will undoubtedly build upon this experience, striving for even greater success in future competitions.

Tuesday, the Spartans took to the greens at the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC) Preview Golf Tournament hosted by Winona State. This event, held at Adams Pointe Golf Club in Blue Springs, Missouri, brought together a competitive field of NCAA Division II teams.

In the midst of challenging competition, the Spartans displayed resilience and determination, finishing 15th out of 18 teams in the all-Division II field. Led by Fredriksson, who secured an impressive 42nd place individual finish, the Spartans showcased their commitment to excellence on the course.

“We are getting closer to being the team we can be,” North said. “This tournament was big-time and we started off with our third-best team score of the year. Playing well in an all-DII field should being us some confidence.”

Fredriksson led the Spartans with a solid performance, finishing the tournament at +10. He was closely followed by Maddux Weeks, who secured 68th place with a score of +15. Chase Copeland and Charlie McDonald finishing with scores of +17 and +18, respectively. Lyck rounded out the Spartan lineup with a score of +18.

The Spartans will be back in action Monday, April 8 at the NC District Spring Preview held at the national-qualifying course, Gates Park.

Cheyenne Roche

CHEYENNE ROCHE

Originally from Wisconsin, Cheyenne has a journalism and political science degree from UW-Eau Claire and a passion for reading and learning. She lives in Creston with her husband and their two little dogs.