Silvis, Ill. - The Illinois Central College men's golf team took fourth place in a strong 16-team field at the Deere Hawk Classic at TPC Deere Run on Thursday. The venue, home of the PGA John Deer Classic, featured seven teams currently ranked in the Top 20 of the latest NJCAA rankings, including the Cougars who are slated at #13.

"It's never a bad day when we can beat rivals Kirkwood and Des Moines Area on the same day," coach Sean Kennedy said. "However it was unfortunate we didn't close out our round better as we let a couple teams sneak past us late."

Individually, sophomores Trey Boecker and Drake Kaufman had memorable days.

Boecker, the #1 ranked player in the latest NJCAA rankings, did not disappoint with a 4-under par 66 (three shots clear of the runner-up) for medalist honors. The field featured four players ranked in the Top 10 and 24 players in the Top 100.

"Trey Boecker's competitive drive was simply inspiring Thursday," Kennedy said. "He had a 1-shot lead with 3 holes to play and caught a tough break when his 2nd shot found the water on the par 5. Some players would falter under this competitive duress but Trey seems to thrive. He proceeded to knock his approach to 8 feet, then made the putt to save par and protect his 1-shot lead. Trey stepped on the gas, closed his round with consecutive birdies and won by 3 strokes. I could use many words to describe him, but "champion' just sums it up best."

Kaufman's stellar day included his first career hole in one on the signature par 3 on Hole 16.

"It was so incredible to get my first ace at a course I watch on TV every year," Kaufman said. "I was so excited afterwards that I was scared I was going to swing and miss on the next tee. It was amazing to share the moment with my family (mom, dad, and sister Kate) who were in attendance."

Coach Sean Kennedy said, "I'm so happy for Drake to have gotten an ace on the signature TV hole at a PGA venue. It will be a story he'll be able to tell for many years to come." 

The Cougars have their final regular season competition on Thursday at the Melee in Morris before readying for the Region 24 Championship on April 27-28.

"Getting 4th against this field will help us prepare for the Region Championship," Kennedy said. 

Results: https://scoreboard.clippd.com/tournaments/243703/scoring/team

WHAT'S NEXT FOR THE COUGARS
Thursday, April 23 at 9:00 am
at Melee in Morris
The Creek Country Club
Morris, IL