April 2, 2008
NORMAL, Ill. -
It has been a week of firsts for Illinois State sophomore men's golfer Drew Miller, as the Bloomington, Ill. native earned his first career victory at the Branson Creek Invitational and grabbed his first Missouri Valley Conference Golfer of the Week honor. Miller outlasted competitors from twelve other teams to earn individual-medalist honors at the par-71, 7,046 yard Branson Creek Golf Club.
In an event shortened to 36-holes due to inclement weather conditions, Miller was able to put together a two-round-total of 143 (73, 70) on his way to a one-stroke victory over host Missouri State's John Cronly. Miller's second-round score of 70 also marked the lowest individual score of the second round.
"Drew was able to get off to a good start in round one," said head coach Ray Kralis. "He had been digging himself into holes in some early rounds this season but he is a strong finisher and his final round of 70 at Branson (Mo.) was very impressive."
Miller is currently tied for the team lead with 23 rounds played, and with his performance at Branson Creek, improved his season scoring average to 75.1. He also earned his second top-five finish of the season.
"We knew Drew was capable of playing this well and earning a win so it was great to see him put together a breakout performance from start to finish," Kralis added.
ISU returns to action Monday-Tuesday, April 7-8 as they compete in the ASU Indian Classic, hosted by Arkansas State at the Sage Meadows Golf Club in Jonesboro, Ark.
