There is a reason why Wolf Run Golf Club in Zionsville is ranked the 20th best course in the country in Golfweek's "America's 100 Best Modern Courses": it's an extremely difficult course.
In its opening event of the fall season, the Ball State University men's golf team finished 13th out of 17 teams at the Wolf Run Intercollegiate. The University of Illinois won the event, shooting a team-combined score of 847 (+7). Ball State shot a 306-287-306 for a total of 899 (+59). The 7,195-yard course was set to a par 71.
"I didn't like our inconsistency," coach Mike Fleck said. "We were way too inconsistent with our shots. We got a solid second round effort, but we were at the bottom of the scoreboard for the first and third rounds. We can't be that inconsistent and be productive at the same time."
Junior Eric Steger led the Cardinals, tying for 27th individually. Steger shot a 78-72-72.
"For the first tournament, I didn't think it was that bad, but we can always do better," Steger said. "It was a really tough course and we just need to learn to put the bad shots behind us and stay aggressive."
Senior Ross Cosat was disappointed with Ball State's performance, but thought this first tournament exhibited the potential his teammates have. Cosat managed a 74-76-73 to tie for 31st.
"Overall, we are disappointed, but we showed potential for future tournaments," Cosat said. "This was probably the toughest course we will play all season and once you've played in that first tournament you usually gain all the experience you need."
Freshman Brodie Williams finished 79th out of 90 players as he competed in his first collegiate event of his career. Although Williams placed last among Cardinal golfers, Fleck said the experience is invaluable.
"He opened up the first round with eight birdies, which was great," Fleck said. "But it was either birdie or bogey plus. He wasn't productive the other two rounds, but it's good experience and he will learn from it and make adjustments."
After playing at a difficult course in Wolf Run, the Cardinals will play host to next week's tournament at the Delaware Country Club.
"I think it's perfect timing to be playing at home," Cosat said. "We are all familiar with Delaware and have a real chance at winning our home tournament."
Because the Cardinals practice at the club on a weekly basis, Steger is excited to put low numbers on the scoreboard.
"I think it's an awesome time in our schedule to be playing at Delaware. We will do a lot better at Delaware," Steger said. "We have practiced there a lot and most of us have been playing there consistently for two or so years now. So, we should do well."
Fleck acknowledged that the course and competition was a tough way to start the season.
"This weekend wasn't that bad. We just played against some tough schools and weren't consistent with our numbers," Fleck said. "Our players just need to put in a better collective effort. We have to have our guys playing in the top half of the field so we can put ourselves in position to win. Next week will be an easier golf course and there is no doubt it will be an advantage. But, we will still have to play well and hit good shots."
Ball State will host the Earl Yestingsmeier Invitational on Sept. 21 and 22 in Muncie.
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