Feb. 16, 2010
Final Stats
SAN ANTONIO, Texas -
The Illinois State men's golf team, led by senior Joe Emerich, did improve during the final round at the Oak Hills Invitational in San Antonio, Texas Tuesday. But it was not enough as the Redbirds were unable to advance in the standings as they finished in last place in the 15-team field after shooting a 932 (317-310-305).
"Nothing feels positive about this trip or experience tournament-wise," head coach Ray Kralis said. "We struggled with our short game and the tight lies that require a lot of precision. We've got to put a lot of this to bed, we're a veteran squad. With the success that this group has had we certainly had expectations different than the way this played out, but we can't let that stay in our heads too long and we have to learn from it."
Emerich bounced back from a tough fall season to lead the Redbirds. The senior finished tied for 44th place after firing a 228 (79-74-75). Junior Jeff Kellen finished tied for 57th place with a 231 (77-78-76). Sophomore Eric Meier tied for 72nd place carding a 238 (82-79-77). Senior Kyle Bragg finished tied for 76th and shot a 239 (79-80-80). Senior Tommy Bliefnick took 79th place after he posted a 241 (85-79-77).
Defending champion, Texas Tech brought home the team title with a score of 875 (299-283-293). Southeastern Louisiana finished in second place, carding an 877 (292-290-295). Tulsa and Baylor tied for third after each team posted an 878.
Philip Westermann of Southeastern Louisiana took home the individual title after firing a three-round score of 211 (71-71-69). Dustin Garza of Wichita State was the runner up after posting a 212 (72-70-70). Philip Fendt of Louisiana LaFayette rounded out the top three with a 214 (70-72-72).
Illinois State will have a quick turnaround when they travel to Mobile, Ala., to compete at the Mobile Bay Intercollegiate. The tree-day tournament will be held at the Mongolia Grove Golf Club. Play will begin Sunday.
"I expect all of these guys to bounce back in South Alabama," Kralis said. "We've got a strong group and we're certainly better than what we showed, but we'll move on. We'll keep our heads up and move forward."
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