Links patrolled by the Scots

By: Danny Weber
Contributing Writer

The men’s golf team was busy over spring break, with a trip to Huntsville, Ala., from March 10 through 18. They followed that trip by attending the Spring Open at Millikin University on the 16 and 17 of March.

Whilst in Alabama, the team played practice rounds at the Robert Trent Jones Trail, which was designed by a course architect known for designing difficult greens. Knowing this, the team was able to go through rigorous practice on the putting surface.

At the Spring Open, the tournament which marked the beginning of the 2007 golf season, on March 16 and 17, the team faced larger universities. At the event, the team placed third amongst the Division III colleges, and fifth and sixth overall. The team’s “B-team” out-did the “A-team” by capturing fifth place.

The “B-team” was lead by freshman Ryan Harvey, who tied for 16th shooting 159 in the two-day tournament. The team’s overall number one player, senior Justin Martin, placed in a tie for seventh, shooting a 155. Other notable performers were senior Nick Harwick, who placed in a tie with 18th and senior Lee Radford, who finished tied with Harvey.

Coach David Ragone commented that this year’s team looks promising, with a very deep roster, especially in the third to sixth positions. With the solid depth this year, Monmouth seems poised to repeat as conference champions.

The golf team’s roster has ballooned compared to recent years. The total roster, now up to16 golfers, has added both depth and talent. The Scots have a solid mix of both young and seasoned golfers and looks to be on the brink for an impressive run in 2007.

They look to this weekend with hopes of a victory over Knox on Thursday and Friday. Last year at the Knox Invitational, the Scots took first place, with Martin leading the way.

Monmouth’s first, and only, home invitational will come on Saturday, April 7 at Gibson Woods Golf course. In last year’s event the team placed second.