BEMIDJI, MN – In their first meet of the 2023-24 season, the University of Mary Men's Golf team embarked on a journey of learning and growth at the Bemidji State Invitational, hosted by Bemidji State University at the Bemidji Town & Country Club.
 
In a competitive field, the Marauders approached the tournament as an invaluable learning experience.
UMary finished seventh with a total score of 618, facing tough competition from other talented teams. The results were as follows:
 
With the beautiful Minnesota backdrop, UMary embarked on the two-day tournament with high hopes and a competitive spirit. After the first day, the Marauders found themselves facing stiff competition, finishing in seventh place with a total score of 313. However, this is where the true essence of the team was revealed.
 
Head Coach Laif Olson was thoroughly impressed with the resilience and commitment demonstrated by his players from day one to day two.
 
"Our team's determination and competitiveness were truly inspiring," said Olson. "They came together and told me about the areas they recognized for improvement, showing that they are not only dedicated to the sport but also to each other."
 
The second day of the tournament saw a marked improvement from UMary, as they reduced their total score to 305. This transformation highlighted the team's ability to adapt and their strong work ethic.
 
"I couldn't be prouder of the way our team responded," said Olson. "They understood the importance of building on their experiences and putting in the effort to reach their potential. We have a dedicated group of athletes, and their willingness to learn and grow is a testament to their character."
 
Gavin Argent led the Marauders individual efforts. After firing a 73 on day two, slicing six strokes off his day one total, Argent finished 27^th overall with a 152. His 73 tied for the seventh-best score out of the 60 competitors on the last day.
 
Dawson Melbo posted the Marauder second-best mark (79-75-151) of the tournament in his first collegiate tournament. Alex Wilson (76-80-156) checked in just a couple strokes off the pace set by Argent and Melbo
 
Evan Booth (79-81-160) and Zach Johnson (84-77-161) rounded out the team scoring for UMary.
 
As the Marauders continue their golf season, they carry with them the valuable lessons learned at the Bemidji State Invitational. It's clear that UMary is a team on the rise, and their determination and commitment will undoubtedly lead to future success on the course.
 
Bemidji State Invitational Team Scores
Minnesota State University - 576 (+8)
Minnesota-Crookston - 592 (+24)
Bemidji State - 594 (+26)
Concordia-St. Paul - 595 (+27)
Augustana - 597 (+29)
Sioux Falls - 605 (+37)
UMary - 618 (+50)
Minot State - 624 (+56)
 
The next stop on their golfing journey is the Maverick Invitational, scheduled for September 18-19 at Troy Burne Golf Club in Hudson, WI. The Marauders look forward to this next challenge as they continue to build on their experiences and work towards their goals.
 
#marauders#