After practicing in Oosterban Field House for almost five months, the Michigan men’s golf team finally had a chance to compete on a real course at the El Diablo Intercollegiate in Citrus Springs, Fl., tying Witchita State University for 10th place out of 20 teams. The Wolverines posted rounds of 298, 300 and 299, totaling 895 – 31 over par.
- Paul Wong
- Senior Andrew Chapman led all Wolverines with a score of 218 this past weekend – a score that tied for season-best.(DANNY MOLOSHOK/Daily)
“We played reasonably well, but not well enough to break away from the pack,” Michigan coach Jim Carras said.
The Wolverines fused a balanced attack led by senior Andrew Chapman, who shot a 218 and tied a season-best with a sixth-place finish.
“I am extremely happy with Andrew’s play,” Carras said. “He played absolutely spectacular. Andrew’s even-par scores could have been even better if he had avoided a few penalties, like misplayed balls.”
Another senior, Andy Matthews, played consistent throughout the tournament, tying for 16th with a 222.
“Matthews played solid golf for us, but not spectacular,” Carras said, “We need Andy to play better at the upcoming Kentucky meet so we can place higher as a team.”
Senior Kyle Kilcherman posted a 237, shooting 74 in the second round, to place 83rd.
“I was somewhat disappointed in Kyle’s play. He’s our No. 3 player,” Carras said. “He needs to play better for us to be competitive in this short spring season.”
Sophomore Dave Nichols competed well in the meet (75-78-75-228), placing 48th. Scott Carlton was the fifth Wolverine competing (79-77-75-231), tying for 60th.
“With such a short season ending in mid March, we need as much practice as we can get to do well at the next meet in Kentucky” Carras said.
For their next meet, the Wolverines will travel to Lexington, Ky. to compete in the Johnny Owens Invitational at Kearny Hills Golf Club on March 30-31.
It will be their first appearance at the Johnny Owens meet since 1998, when they finished 12th out of 20 teams.
The Wolverines haven’t finished higher than fifth all season.