Wallace State's golf team is off to an impressive start in its pursuit of a national title. The Lions, last season's national runner-up, are tied for first after their opening round Tuesday in the NJCAA Division I national championship. Wallace State shot an impressive 1-over par 289 at the Sand Creek Station Golf Course in Newton, Kansas. Indian Hills (Iowa) also stands at 289.
Wallace State finished runner-up last season for the third time in program history and has a strong group seeking the program's first national crown in Kansas.
Wallace State's Cooper Brown was the individual national champion last season and was named the Arnold Palmer Award winner after finishing as the tournament's low medalist.
Brown has continued his strong play on the national level. The sophomore from Canada carded a 2-under 70 on Tuesday, placing him in a three-way tie for second after the opening 72 holes.
Freshman Sylas Elliott carded an even-par 72 for the Lions in Kansas, while Will McDowell shot a one-over 73.
Eli Marty finished with a two-over 74 for Wallace State and Walker Gordon had a 4-over 76 after his first round.
Wallace State golf is competing in its 20th NJCAA Division I national tournament under coach Dan York. The Lions have already won the ACCC/Region 22 title this season and finished fourth in the NJCAA District IV tournament.
Wallace State is among 22 teams competing in Kansas.
Fellow ACCC members Faulkner State and Central Alabama are 13th and 15th respectively.
Tournament play will continue until May 15.
For complete team and indvidual results, please visit:
http://www.golfstatresults.com/public/leaderboards/gsnav.cfm?pg=team&tid=8123
Pictured is Cooper Brown