The Mercyhurst men’s golf team made program history earning the title of both team and individual PSAC Champions on Oct. 18 at the Hershey Country Club. The Lakers stood out against their competition winning in both areas.

The Laker golfers, led by Head Coach Ron Coleman, controlled the entire tournament, playing with concentration and passion.

Although they have been close to winning in previous years, this year’s team proved to be different. With rough competitors in front, such as IUP, Gannon and West Chester, the Lakers had to level up their games in order to win.

The individual section of the tournament was also dominated by Mercyhurst. Junior Christopher Kupniewski won the tournament, exhibiting high-level golf through the entire tournament.

Senior Blaze Hogan also performed incredibly, which led him to face Kupniewski in the finals.

Both of these players made excellent representations of Mercyhurst University.

According to Coleman, Kupniewski and Hogan are ranked first and second in the region, which includes two more conferences other than the PSAC. The success of these two players has carried on through the season. They also ranked No. 1 and 2 in the Gannon Invitational.

“They are both a big part of our success. They not only put up the scores and help us win these tournaments, but they also provided a lot of incentive throughout the whole team,” Coleman said.

Behind every good team, there is a good coach, which is the case for this golf team as well.

Coach Coleman had a successful golf career himself, allowing him to better understand the game and give his players better advice. Coleman won a record eight Erie District Golf Association (EDGA) individual titles, five in match play and three in stroke play.

“They’re obviously good players, and they take coaching very well. I had success myself which is something for them to see, so when I say something it is believable,” Coleman said.

Nonetheless, there were other golfers who showed a great level as well. Freshman Harison Laskey put up a strong second round in PSAC tied for seventh overall.

With this win, the Lakers receive an automatic bid to the regionals play next spring.