IOWA CITY, Iowa – The Southern Illinois Men’s Golf team made history and had another big performance, this time at the Hawkeye Invitational finishing in second place out of 16 teams with a score of 845 (-7) behind tournament winner Wisconsin.
“We responded well after a shaky first round where we were near the bottom of the leaderboard,” Fetcho said. “The resiliency to bounce back and finish second shows our toughness and attitude.”
SIU recorded three top-five marks in the record books during the tournament. Their 54-hole score of 845 ranks fifth all-time, their 36-hole score is tied for the lowest in school history, and their final-round score of 274 is second, only one stroke behind the record.
The Salukis began play on Sunday in ninth place before four out of five golfers finished under par.
Coach Justin Fetcho reflected on a stellar third round at the Hawkeye Invitational.
“We had four golfers shoot in the 60s in the final round, and to shoot the lowest score of the day is something we always pride ourselves on,” Fetcho said. “We had a lot of discipline today which has been a big focal point for us.”
MVC Golfer of the Week Edouard Cereto led the way for the Salukis finishing tied for third with a score of 207 (-6), only six strokes behind the leader. After a round one score of 71 (E), Cereto played his best golf of the tournament with a round two score of 67 (-4), and a round three score of 69 (-2).
Dain Richie was pivotal in Southern’s success over the weekend with a score of 208 (-5). His third round was his best, finishing the tournament strong with a score of 67 (-4).
Coach Justin Fetcho shared his thoughts on the strong performances of Edouard Cereto and Dain Richie.
“They have been key contributors for us all year, this week was no different,” Fetcho said. “They are both building confidence at a great time in the season.”
Andrew Thornton finished tied for 17th, scoring 212 (-1). Thornton finished with a third best of 69 (-2).
Hugo Archer rebounded from a round two score of 78 (+7), finishing round three strong with a score of 69 (-2).
Hugo Archer and Justin Wingerter finished the tournament with a score of 221 (+8).
“We wanted to build momentum as we head into the postseason,” Fetcho said. “We were able to accomplish that, and I am looking forward to another good week of preparation as we get ready for the MVC Championship”.
A full tournament breakdown can be accessed via the Live Results.
