The Mercyhurst Men’s golf team had a good run in the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference Championship where they came in fifth place.

This is a great finish on the weekend after playing two full rounds and trying to surpass other top teams. Many of the Lakers pitched in for this team win with good individual play by Evan Watkins, Chris Kupniewski, Jon Bayer, and Cory Vinborg. Watkins led the boys with a combined score of 147, which is a season best for him. This aided in him receiving fifth in individual placing. Kupniewski earned a 152 that placed him at 12, Bayer shot a 154 that placed him at 21, and Vinborg shot a 157 combined score that placed him at 31 overall.

Watkins’ experience and skills helped him earn fifth place. He was more than excited to be there for the last time as a senior.

“The PSAC Championship this fall was great. We had excellent weather both days, which provided the chance to score well,” he said. “Since it was my last conference championship I had a little extra motivation to play well and I think that contributed to my best PSAC appearance.”

Although it was his last match at a PSAC Championship, mentally and physically he prepared just as he always does.

“I really treated the week prior just like any other week in the season. I did not want to put any extra pressure on my self to play well.” For the team to finish strong on the last weekend of the fall season was crucial while preparing for the spring.

“The team played exceptionally well. We beat the two teams we needed to and hopefully this can give us some momentum heading into the spring,” Watkins said.

The difference in scores among all of the top five teams in competition is extremely close, but Watkins and the rest of the Lakers are proud with where they are so far.

“It’s always hard to be satisfied with the results when 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place can be determined over only a few shots. However, overall I think the team was pleased and we all are looking forward to this spring”