Soydara Places 2nd, Spartan Men Finish 6th at Jimmie Invitational
M State golfers spent Monday and Tuesday competing at the UJ Fall Invite, hosted by Jamestown University in North Dakota. The tournament was 54 holes with 36 played on Monday and the remaining 18 on Tuesday. “It was a grind playing 54 holes in two days and we have some tired player,” expressed Head Coach Jason Retzlaff.
The Spartan men improved their team score with each round, shooting a 3-day total of 979 (333-326-320) to finish sixth out of eight teams at the Jimmie Invite. Charlie Fuder led the Spartans with a 3-day total of 239 (86-77-76). Brock Thompson carded his lowest round of the season on Tuesday with a 79, on the way to a 246 (83-84-79). Markus Nelson came in at 251 (80-89-82), Adam Vatnsdal at 254 (84-79-91) and Erik Bjorndahl at 261 (92-86-83) to round out the team scoring. Playing as individuals were Riley Stromlund who shot a 259 (90-84-85) and Nathan Hillman who finished with a 276 (97-93-86).
“It was nice to see our men improve each day and each player had some good moments, which was fun to see,” said Coach Retzlaff. “Charlie was terrific in his final two rounds and Brock continues to improve. He had his best round of the season on Tuesday and his confidence should continue to grow. I feel like this team has its best days ahead as we continue to gain experience.”
Concordia College won the team event with a 3 day total of 892 and Jamestown was runner up with an 895. Jack Hanson of Concordia was the medalist with a 220 (76-71-73). Former Spartan All-American golfer Grant Inniger, now at Valley City State, finished tenth individually with a 3-day total of 230.
Ellia Soydara on day one of the Jimmie Invite. PHOTO by JEFF HAUKOS
Ellia Soydara from the 18th fairway on Tuesday. PHOTO by JEFF HAUKOS
Charlie Fuder on the 13th hole during his second round. PHOTO by JEFF HAUKOS
Brock Thompson on the second hole during Tuesday's round. PHOTO by JEFF HAUKOS
Ellia Soydara finished in 2nd place individually with a 3-day total of 240 (78-77-85). In her four tournaments thus far, Soydara has finished 1st, 1st, 1st, 2nd. Isabella Crafford was the medalist with a 238 (76-81-81).
“Ellia played very well the first two rounds, but couldn’t quite get momentum going on the last day,” stated Retzlaff. “It was fun watching her and Isabella Crafford of Jamestown compete in the final round as they are both such great players. Overall, finishing 2nd in a field of experienced four-year college players is another great result for Ellia.”
