The men’s golf team took part in the Pilgrim’s Run Invitational hosted by West Texas A&M Sept. 8 and 9 in Pierson, Michigan, finishing 11th with a three-round total of 950(+74).
Sophomore Evan Klein led the team, as he tied 17th overall with rounds of 75, 75, and 78 for a score of 228(+9). Klein bagged the role of the tournament leader in pars, finishing fourth with 35.
“I felt like our team’s 11th place finish was not our best showing as I know we can compete for a top 3 spot every tournament we go to,” Klein said. “There is a lot to learn from this tournament to help us succeed in future events”.
Junior, Tony Spicuzza pushed through with a 48th place finish at 239 (+20). His second round, scoring a 76, was a turning point, turning around a rough start with steady play.
“Although the score wasn’t what I was looking for, that 76 definitely had some positives,” Spicuzza said. “I started the second round +4 through 3 holes, but I kept my composure and went -1 over the last 15. That gave me a lot of confidence going into day two.”
Klein added that the team is still developing as many players were making their debuts in the team and was optimistic for the team’s potential.
“Our expectations were pretty neutral going in as this was everyone’s first start in college except mine,” he said. “We didn’t quite play to our ability, but I know there are great things to come for this team.”
Notably, three freshmen made their first appearances. Dominik Dostal shot 243(+24), Garrett Morrison scored 246(+27), and Jorge Basterra added a 247(+28). Individually, freshman Bradley VanDamme carded a 270(+51) in his tournament debut.
Collectively, SVSU yielded 28 birdies and 140 pars over the event, showing flashes of scoring potential. For Spicuzza, the result was an opportunity for growth and leadership.
“I felt our team’s 11th-place finish was definitely not our best showing knowing the potential of this team,” Spicuzza said. “We’re a super young group, but we believe we have a chance to compete every week. We’ll be back way stronger next time.”
Both Klein and Spicuzza emphasized team unity as a driving force for improvement. Klein said that as an upperclassman, he aims to be a helping hand for teammates, especially adjusting to high pressure environments in major tournaments. Spicuzza commented on the team’s strong chemistry.
“Honestly, I love this team. We hang out all the time and I feel I can connect personally with everyone,” Spicuzza said, “Even when things don’t go our way, we always try to stay grateful for the opportunity to compete.”
SVSU will return to action, Sept. 15, at the Midwest/Central Regional Preview, as the Cardinals look to apply lessons from Pilgrim’s Run toward stronger finishes this fall.
