MADISON, Wis. – After the first round of the Badger Invitational, the Illinois State men's golf is in fourth place, carding a team score of 295 Sunday. Junior Christian Crabill and sophomore Zach Burry led the Redbirds through the first 18 holes with under-par performances, at the 7,259-yard University Ridge Golf Course.
Head coach Ray Kralis feels his team faired well in Sunday's round, putting the team right where it needs to be for Monday's round.
"Zach and Christian gave us key rounds, and I feel good about the team going into Monday," Kralis said. "We have a strong group capable of feeding off those red numbers, and I believe we will build some momentum in the second round."
Crabill and Burry led the Redbirds, firing 2-under-par 70 on the day and tying for sixth place on the individual leaderboard after the first round. Freshman Michael Mounce, who placed 50th on the individual leaderboard, shot a 77, while senior Tyler Gentilella and freshman Trent Wallace were a shot behind, carding a 78.
In the individual competition, junior Kyle Meihofer also carded a 2-under-par 70, while sophomore Steven Mullins scored a 75 and sophomore Jason Marrs finished the day with an 85.
Kralis spoke highly of Meihofer after his first round of individual play.
"It was also great to see Kyle play well individually," Kralis added. "When he gets it going, he can play with anyone."
Out of the 15 teams, Miami (Ohio) is sitting on top at 278, while Kansas is in second with 283 followed by Ball State in third with 289. ISU is six strokes out of third place, heading into the second round.
The second round will begin Monday at 9 a.m., with assigned tee times.
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