Michael Pecha

South Dakota State’s men’s and women’s golf teams began their spring season last weekend at the Tabor College Invitational in Junction City, Kan.

The men’s team finished second out of 14 teams with a two-day total of 628, only four strokes behind first-place team, St. Gregory’s.

“For our first time out, and this being the first time some of the players have hit outside this season, I thought we played well,” head coach Bob Brotsky said.

Most of the teams in the invitational were from Kansas, Oklahoma and Texas, and have already played in tournaments this spring. Kyle Matzen led the Jackrabbits at 154, which was good enough for eighth place. Brian Schultz placed 20th with 158.

“I was proud of the way our team showed up to play,” said Brotsky.

The women’s team finished third out of six teams with a two-day total of 799.

Arin Adamson led the Jackrabbits with a 17th-place finish, at 197. Heidi Tjosaas was 19th at 200.

“I was also proud of the way our women’s team played,” Brotsky said.

Brotsky said that he was happy with how the women’s team dealt with the unseasonalby cold temperatures.

“The women go in the morning, before the men, so they have to contend with the elements more.”

Brotsky said that the trip helped to reinforce the unity that already existed among the members of the golf team.

“It was a good trip,” he said. “We could have shot better … but we don’t have any excuses. We will have a chance to play a bit more in April and will hopefully see improved scores.”

The men’s team plays next in Lincoln, Neb. April 4-5. The women play April 6 to 7 in Omaha, Neb.