Bradley’s men’s golf team started the season with a fifth-place finish at the Whistling Straits Invitational. The Braves were led by freshman Dan Lensing, who tied for third individually.
“I was really excited because it’s a great way to start out my col- lege career,” Lensing said. “There is still plenty to work on, but I have confidence in knowing I can compete at the division one level.”
The Braves were in fourth place after the first two rounds on Monday thanks to shooting a 308 in the first round and 306 in the second. A final round score of 304 on Tuesday was an improvement, but they were passed by Missouri Valley Conference opponent Loyola, who one stroke ahead.
Youngstown State (886) won the tournament by eight strokes over Valparaiso (894.) MVC rival Northern Iowa finished sixth with a total score of 933, 15 shots behind the Braves.
Lensing finished the tourna- ment with a three-round score of 219, three over par for the tourna- ment. Transfer student Lyle Burns finished 12th, shooting a 12-over junior Garrett Cox and sophomore Bobby Jacobs placed in the top 35 for Bradley, with Trolia’s 242 placing him the highest at 16th.
“It wasn’t a surprise that Danny was able to play that well,” coach Jeff Roche said. “He really held his composure and finished strong.”
“Next week we will get Danny Masrin back who is a great per- former and great leader,” Roche said.
The early results from men’s golf appear to show the team has reloaded from last year. Meanwhile, women’s golf coach Mary Swanson spoke highly of her freshman class, knowing that they are a talented group.
Grace Henderson, Abby Wellens and Ally Scaccia are all freshmen competing for playing time.
Returning to the team this year are MVC Player of the Year Danielle Lemek and juniors Jenna Roadley and Allison Walsh. Sophomore Paige Jordan also returns to the Braves.
Swanson is looking forward to the upcoming tournament where she said the team will learn a lot about themselves.
“It’s always interesting to see how things shake out,” Swanson said. “There is more competi- tion for the top five spots and to determine who goes to the next tournament.”
Swanson believes the team has had productive practices, and is ready to begin the season at the Redbird Invitational Sept. 7 and 8.
