One Jackrabbit advances to regional tournament in Arizona, team does not

Lynn Stoneburner

Lynn Stoneburner

The selection committee handed the Jacks some good and some bad news this weekend.

The Jacks did not qualify for regions as a team, but junior Brian Schultz advanced individually to the regional tournament this weekend in Goodyear, Ariz.

The selection committee chooses which eight teams and additional individuals advance, based on fall and spring performances.

Schultz will play at Estrella Mountain Ranch Golf Club May 6-8. The tournament is hosted by Grand Canyon University.

“The whole team is excited for Brian,” coach Bob Brotsky said. “It was our hope that the whole team could qualify, but we are pleased to have an individual qualifier.”

The South Dakota State University men’s golf team competed in the Minnesota State University, Mankato Spring Invitational April 26 and 27.

In the first day of play, at Shoreland Country Club, sophomore Kyle Matzen led the Jacks with his round of 72. Senior Dustin Kriech finished with 76, followed by Charlie Jacobson with 77. Freshman Matt Conlon carded a 78.

With a team total of 303, the Jacks entered Saturday’s round in tenth place of the 19 teams competing at the Maverick Invitational.

The tournament was shortened from 36 to 27 holes due to inclement playing conditions on the second day. Saturday’s round consisted of only nine holes, played at North Links Golf Club. Leading the way for SDSU was Jacobson with 39. Matzen and Schultz carded 40s. Kriech came in at 41.

The Jacks shot 160 to finish in ninth place overall. St. John’s won the tournament with a team total of 435. Host Minnesota State, Mankato finished at 439 to tie for second with Gustavus Adolphus.

According to Brotsky, the weather went from bad to worse. Saturday’s play began with light rain and wind but ended with sleet, strong winds and a severe wind chill.

The Maverick Invitational concluded the regular season for the Jackrabbit team. Schultz will make the trip to Arizona this weekend to represent SDSU in the regional tournament.