The NCMC Pirate's golf team was back in action Monday at the McNaughton Invitational in Jacksonville, IL. Placing in a tie for ninth out of twelve teams, this was the best finish yet for the squad. All five golfers shot under 90 for the first time this season. Freshman Jaime Connelly led the scoring for the Pirates shooting a 79, good for a 24th place tie individually.
"We're improving with each tournament we play. Not being able to see the course or play a practice round prior to competition was a bit unfair to the scorecard, but the guys overcame it and played nicely. We still have to find a way to eliminate the big numbers. At this level, players should be able to make enough birdies to combat bogies, but when doubles and triples start popping up it really puts unnecessary pressure on their game. We've got a couple more events on the schedule before we head to our District/Regional play. I hope the guys are able to use those tournaments to make the game simple again. There's nothing wrong with hitting fairways and greens, then two putting for par," remarked Coach Sager of the tournament and the remaining schedule for the Pirates.
Next up the Pirates will compete at Green Hill Golf Course in Chillicothe, MO, hosting Graceland University and Missouri Valley College. That date is set for Wednesday, April 19th.