Warriors take third in Waldorf Invitational

Matt Oliver

FOREST CITY – The Waldorf University men’s golf team placed third in Sunday’s Waldorf Invitational, turning in an 18-hole score of 318 strokes.

It wasn’t the performance the Warriors had envisioned on their home turf, but they look to build off the experience as they prepare for the fall stage of the North Star Athletic Association (NSAA) Championships.

“It’s good to be at home,” Waldorf coach Mark Clouse said. “There were a lot of positive aspects to come out of it. We have a week until our conference meet, so we’ve got to do some practicing on some areas so we’re prepared for the biggest meet of the fall.”

Thomas O’Rourke led the Warriors as the senior from Forest City secured fifth, firing a 75-stroke total on the par-69 layout at Bear Creek Golf Course.

“It was a good, solid round,” Clouse said.

Waldorf senior Hugo Becerra tied for 10th as he carded a 78, and sophomore Zabdiel Flores claimed 13th behind a 79-stroke outing.

“We had some decent scores from a few players, but we’re going to need some lower scores at the conference meet to remain competitive,” Clouse said.

Senior Chad Hein tied for 17th, shooting an 86 for the Warriors. Competing as an individual, Waldorf senior Austin Sommer placed 20th with an 88. Freshman Justin Pierce tied for 21st following an 89-stroke total.

NCAA Division III’s Iowa Wesleyan University captured the team championship with 298 strokes, topping North Iowa Area Community College (308) by 10 strokes. Waldorf (318) and Hawkeye Community College (347) completed the team standings.

NIACC’s Joe Nordquist locked up the individual title with a 71. Iowa Wesleyan’s Kiley Miller grabbed second with a 73 while his teammates, Connor McLean and Bo Vitale, tied for third behind 74-stroke performances.

Waldorf returns to practice this week as the Warriors prepare to host the fall portion of the NSAA Championships. They aim to hit their stride during the first two rounds of the cumulative conference tournament, scheduled for Sept. 26-27 at Wedgewood Cove Golf Club in Albert Lea, Minn.

“Physically, I think we’re ready,” Clouse said. “We just need to prepare mentally for that challenge. We’re up to the task, and I’m optimistic we can do very well. Now, it’s time to show it on the golf course.”