Otterbein Falls to 12th After Third Round of NCAA's
Written May 13, 2010 by Adam Prescott

Cards Lead Throughout Day, Eventually Conclude Round in Fifth
Written May 12, 2010 by Adam Prescott

Cardinals Positioned Third After Day One at NCAA Championships
Written May 11, 2010 by Adam Prescott

Paluszak Named OAC Coach of the Year
Written May 5, 2010 by Adam Prescott

WESTERVILLE, OHIO – Otterbein head golf coach Mark Paluszak has been named the Ohio Athletic Conference “Coach of the Year” for both men’s and women’s golf, the league office released Tuesday afternoon.

Head Coach Mark Paluszak

Paluszak, in his first season at the helm, has helped lead both teams to the national championships for the second consecutive season.

The women’s team won its third consecutive OAC Tournament championship two weeks ago to earn an automatic bid to nationals, being played May 11-14 at the Mission Inn Resort in Howey-in-the-Hills, Florida. The team, which has finished fifth in each of its last two trips to the national tournament, has been crowned league champions in seven of the past eight seasons.

The men’s team will be making its second-straight trip to nationals after winning the OAC Tournament by five strokes this past weekend in Alliance. The team now travels to the Hershey Links and Hershey Country Club in Pennsylvania for the NCAA Tournament, also held May 11-14. As a unit, Otterbein has won 11 of the last 13 men’s OAC golf tournaments. They placed 13^th at the NCAA’s a year ago.

Paluszak knew that reaching the NCAA Championships would be the goal for both teams entering the season.

“It was absolutely the goal,” he said. “We had lost two or three starters on both the men’s and women’s side, so I knew it may be a tough job at task, but I also knew that we had the right individuals in place. By helping them with some encouragement and course management, I thought we could make it back, and I’m very pleased with everything they’ve done and am looking forward to the next couple of weeks.”

While both teams may have not gotten off to the starts they wanted this spring, they certainly hit stride down the home stretch.

“Everyone started gelling at the right time,” Paluszak said. “It comes down to one week for both of our teams… you win the conference championship and you get to go to the national championship. Everybody just started playing well at the right time.”

Paluszak understands the importance of taking everything on step at a time in the process of competing on a national scale.

“I hope we can learn on the experiences from last year and capitalize on those,” he said. “Being able to play one shot at a time, one hole at a time, and one day at a time will be very important, rather than looking at the big picture. It’s crucial to break your experience down into small increments because you can’t let one bad shot affect your entire golf tournament.”

Paluszak was a 1995 graduate of Otterbein and earned All-OAC, All-District, and All-America honors three years in a row while playing for the Cardinals. He finished second at the NCAA Championships during his senior season, shooting the low round of the tournament (68).

Cards Win 2nd Straight OAC Title--Four Earn All-OAC Honors
Written May 1, 2010 by Ed Syguda

ALLIANCE, OHIO—The Otterbein men’s golf team won its second-straight Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) championship, earning an automatic bid to the NCAA Championships scheduled for May 11-14 at the Hershey Links and Hershey Country Club in Hershey, Pa.

The Cardinals, placing all five golfers in the top 14, shot a 600 (298-302) to win the conference tournament by five strokes. Host Mount Union finished second with a 605 (308-297) in the nine-team field. The tournament was held Friday and Saturday at the Tannenhauf Golf Club in Alliance.

Cody MacLean

Otterbein’s Cody MacLean, a freshman from Wellsville (Wellsville High School), took medalist honors, shooting a 1-over-par 145 (73-72).

Rounding out the Otterbein five were: Ben Adams, a junior from Pataskala (Watkins Memorial), who tied for fourth place with a 150 (74-76); Alex Stansell, a junior from Fairfield, who tied for 10th place with a 153 (75-78); Taylor Harle, a freshman from Delaware (Olentangy), who also finished with a share of 10th with a 153 (77-76); and Brock Neighbors, a sophomore from Westerville (Westerville South), who tied for 14th with a 154 (76-78).

MacLean, Adams, Stansell, and Harle each earned All-OAC honors by finishing in the top 10.

With this championship, Otterbein has won 11 of the last 13 OAC tournaments. The Cardinals have won the OAC title 14 times in school history.

Cards Take 4th at OAC Spring Tournament
Written April 18, 2010 by Alex Stansell

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ohio—Otterbein placed fourth in the OAC Spring Invitational, hosted by Muskingum at River Greens Golf Club. The tournament was played on Saturday and Sunday. The Cards shot 925 (314-299-312) over the two days.

Sophomore Brock Neighbors placed fifth, carding rounds of 77, 72, and 79. Freshman Cody MacLean was one shot back and tied for sixth place with 229 (77-73-79).

“We really wanted to win this tournament,” said head coach Mark Paluszak. “We came up short, and there is some work to do before the OAC Championship in two weeks. We will be ready to win that one.”

Junior Ben Adams tied for 19th place, with 234 (78-77-79). Freshman Taylor Harle tied for 24th place, finishing with 237 (82-79-76). Junior Alex Stansell finished 31st with 242 (87-77-78).

John Carroll University won the tournament, with 912 (306-302-304).

The scores from the OAC Fall Invitational were combined with the spring results to produce the regular-season champion, which was won by John Carroll. They shot 1542, beating Otterbein by one stroke. The Cardinals shot 1543 over the five rounds.

Cards Miss First Place by One Stroke at Lamkin Strimer
Written April 11, 2010 by Alex Stansell

DELAWARE, OHIO—Otterbein came up just shy of their first victory of the season, finishing second by one shot at Ohio Wesleyan’s Lamkin Strimer Invitational. The tournament was played Saturday and Sunday at Glenross and Oakhaven Golf Clubs. The team shot 592 (286-306) over the two days.

The Cards placed three players in the top five, led by junior Ben Adams, who tied for second place with 144 (70-74). Classmate Alex Stansell was one shot behind, firing rounds of 70 and 75 to finish in fourth place. Sophomore Brock Neighbors tied for fifth, shooting 146 (73-73).

“Very big improvements the first day, we finally put four scores together,” said assistant coach Tim Ford. “It was disappointing to end up one stroke behind, but we will learn from it and come firing next week at River Greens.”

Freshman Cody MacLean shot rounds of 73 and 84 to tie for 23rd place. Sophomore Dave Devore rounded out the lineup for Otterbein, finishing in 42nd place with 169.

Ohio Wesleyan shot 591 (290-301) to edge out the Cards by one shot for the team title. There were 47 players from eight different schools in the event.

The team will play next at the OAC Spring Invitational on Saturday and Sunday.

Cards Place Third at Muskingum Invitational
Written March 29, 2010 by Alex Stansell

ZANESVILLE, OH—The Cardinals continued their spring season by finishing third at the Muskingum Spring Invitational played at Eaglesticks Golf Club last Friday and Saturday. The team shot 611 (305-306) over the two days.

Sophomore Brock Neighbors tied for seventh place, shooting 74-76. Freshman Cody MacLean was one stroke back after firing rounds of 77 and 74 to tie for ninth place.

“The conditions the first day were very tough,” said assistant coach Tim Ford. “The wind and cold didn’t make anything easy. The second day we threw away a lot of shots, and that needs to be improved upon as we move forward this spring.”

Junior Ben Adams tied for 13th place, finishing with 153 (77-76). Junior Alex Stansell had rounds of 77 and 80 to tie for 20th. Sophomore Tyler Green shot 166 (86-80) and tied for 46th place.

The invitational was won by Malone University, who shot a 2-under-par 558 (286-272) for the two days. There were 62 golfers from nine different schools playing in the event.

Otterbein will tee it up next April 10-11 at Ohio Wesleyan.
 

Cards Open Spring Play at Jekyll Island
Written March 23, 2010 by Alex Stansell

JEKYLL ISLAND, GA—The Otterbein men’s golf team kicked off its spring season at the Jekyll Island Invitational, hosted by defending national champion Oglethorpe University (GA) at Pine Lakes Golf Club. The tournament was held Friday through Sunday, and the Cards placed 20th out of 27 teams, shooting 946 (318-311-317) over the three days.

Sophomore Brock Neighbors tied for 50th place, firing a 230 (81-74-75). Junior Alex Stansell placed 84th in the field, finishing with 238 (82-77-79).

“We knew we would be rusty, and it would take us time to get our games together,” said head coach Mark Paluszak. “It was a big disadvantage for us not to have played on grass before the tournament. The other teams were lucky enough to have nicer weather, and had more time to practice and get ready to play their best. Everything considered, our scores were not terrible, but we do need to improve starting with our short game.”

Tying for 87th was junior Ben Adams, who fired rounds of 76, 81, and 82. Sophomore Taylor Ford had rounds of 79, 79, and 83 to take 93rd place, with 241 for the week. Freshman Cody MacLean rounded out the lineup for Otterbein, and finished tied for 105th with a 245 (82-82-81).

Methodist University took the team title, shooting an even-par 864 (291-283-290). There were 27 teams and 133 individuals competing in the field.

Ben Adams Earns OAC Player of the Week Honors
Written Oct. 19, 2009 by Ed Syguda

WESTERVILLE, OHIO—Ben Adams, a junior from Pataskala (Watkins Memorial High School), was selected Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) men’s golfer of the week, the OAC released Monday.

Adams turned in Otterbein’s best finish, a share of ninth place, at the 36-hole Wittenberg Fall Invitational held Oct. 13 at Windy Knoll Golf Club in Springfield.

Adams shot rounds of 75 and 77 on the par-71 golf course. Eighty-two players from 14 teams participated in the invitational.

Cards Wrap up Fall Play
Written Oct. 15, 2009 by Ed Syguda

SPRINGFIELD, OHIO—The Cardinal men’s golf team wrapped up its fall season with a third-place finish at the Wittenberg Fall Invitational. The tournament was held Tuesday at Windy Knoll Golf Club.

Otterbein shot 619 (309-310) on the day and finished behind Wittenberg (598) and Transylvania (605).

“We didn’t play particularly well today,” first-year head coach Mark Paluszak said. “It was nice to finish third without our best game, so that was encouraging. We are all looking forward to the spring and finally putting everything together.”

Junior Ben Adams was the low scorer for the Cards with a 152 (75-77) to finish in a tie for ninth place. Junior Alex Stansell (75-78) and sophomore Brock Neighbors (79-74) tied for 12th, one shot back with a pair of 153’s.

Tying for 32nd was sophomore Dave Devore, who shot 161 (80-81). Freshman Taylor Harle put up consecutive 82’s for a 164 to earn a share of 42nd.

Stansell Earns OAC Player of the Week Honors
Written Oct. 13, 2009 by Ed Syguda

WESTERVILLE, OHIO—Alex Stansell, a junior from Fairfield (Fairfield High School), was selected Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) men’s golfer of the week, the OAC released Monday.

Stansell finished second, shooting rounds of 73 and 72 at the DePauw Small College Classic held at the Deer Creek Golf Club Saturday and Sunday in Clayton, Ind. Ten teams competed in the event, which featured 66 golfers.

Otterbein shot a 611 (303-308) on the par-71 course to finish third behind host DePauw, with a 585 (292-293), and Wittenberg, 602 (305-297).

Cards Place Thirds at DePauw Small College Classic
Written Oct. 12, 2009 by Alex Stansell

CLAYTON, INDIANA—Otterbein placed third out of ten teams at the DePauw Small College Classic held Saturday and Sunday at Deer Creek Golf Club.

The team shot 611 (303-308) and finished behind DePauw (585) and Wittenberg (602).

“We’ve just struggled all fall to put together four scores,” said first-year head coach Mark Paluszak. “I’m not displeased with our performance from this week, but we are capable of better golf. Once we get everybody going, we will be putting up a lot lower scores.”

Leading the way for the Cards was junior Alex Stansell, who was the tournament runner-up with a 145 (73-72). Sophomore Brock Neighbors tied for 11th place with 152 (73-79). Junior Ben Adams shot 155 (75-80) over the two days and tied for 21st place.

Freshman Taylor Harle tied for 34th with 159 (82-77) while sophomore Taylor Ford rounded out the lineup with a 173 (89-84) for a share of 61st.

Otterbein Finishes Third at Mount Union
Written Sept. 30, 2009 by Alex Stansell

ALLIANCE, OHIO—The Cardinal men’s golf team finished third at the Mount Union Fall Invitational held Sunday and Monday at the Tannenhauf Golf Club and the Alliance Country Club.

Otterbein shot 607 (305-302) over the two rounds and finished ten shots behind John Carroll, who won the tournament by one shot with a 597 (291-306). Lake Erie College, with a 598, finished second.

“After a mediocre first day, we weren’t too far off from the leaders,” said first-year head coach Mark Paluszak. “We knew we could make a move and shoot up the leader board. We moved from sixth to third after a solid round in tough conditions on Monday. I was very pleased with how we finished the tournament.”

Junior Alex Stansell carded a 148 (73-75) and finished in fifth place. Sophomore Taylor Ford was one shot behind with a 149 (77-72) and tied for sixth.

Junior Ben Adams tied for 13th, finishing with a 152 (74-78). Sophomore Brock Neighbors tied for 42nd after rounds of 81 and 77. Junior Cody MacLean finished a shot back with a 159 (81-78) and tied for 46th place.

Cards Win OAC Fall Tournament
Written Sept. 22, 2009 by Alex Stansell

MEDINA, OHIO—The Otterbein men’s golf team won the OAC Fall Invitational on Sunday and Monday at Fox Meadows Country Club. The tournament was hosted by Baldwin-Wallace.

The Cards shot 618 (303-315) over the two rounds to win by eight shots over second-place Mount Union.

“I thought we played very well the first day, and put ourselves in good position to win,” said first-year head coach Mark Paluszak. “We had a terrible front nine on Monday, but got it together on the back to solidify the victory. I was very impressed with how we fought and didn’t let the tournament get away.”

Junior Ben Adams led the way for Otterbein, carding two rounds of 74 to finish in second place. Classmate Alex Stansell shot rounds of 75 and 79 to tie for eighth place.

Sophomore Taylor Ford tied for 17th place with rounds of 75 and 83. Junior Cody MacLean tied for 27th place with a 162 (79-83) and sophomore Brock Neighbors tied for 47th place.

Cards Finish 6th at Kisor Classic
Written Sept. 14, 2009 by Alex Stansell

PATASKALA, OHIO—Otterbein men’s golf started the fall season by placing sixth at the Ohio Dominican/Otterbein Kisor Classic held Friday and Saturday at Cumberland Trail Golf Club in Pataskala.

The team finished with a 54-hole total of 914, and was only four strokes back of third place.

Leading the Cards was sophomore Brock Neighbors (Westerville/Westerville South) with a 220 (76-69-75), good enough for fifth place.

Alex Stansell, a junior from Fairfield, scored a 230 (75-77-78) and tied for 21st place.  Junior Ben Adams (Pataskala/Watkins Memorial) tied for 38th with rounds of 77-78-79. One shot back was junior Cody MacLean (Wellsville), who tallied a 235 to tie for 41st.

Taylor Ford rounded out the lineup for Otterbein and finished tied for 54th.

The tournament was won by Marian College (IN) with an 873. Overall, 98 players from 15 different schools competed in the event.

Mark Paluszak Named Head Coach
Written August 24, 2009 by Adam Prescott

WESTERVILLE, OHIO—Otterbein named Mark Paluszak its new head golf coach for both the men’s and women’s programs, Otterbein athletic director Dick Reynolds released today.

“Mark is a former Otterbein All-American, who led our teams to three NCAA tournaments, and we look forward to him leading the program now,” Reynolds said.

A 1995 graduate of Otterbein, Paluszak earned All-Ohio Athletic Conference, all-district, and All-American honors three straight years while playing golf for the Cardinals. He finished second at the NCAA Championships his senior year after posting the low round (68) of the tournament. Over the course of his career, the Cardinals finished eighth, fifth, and second, respectively, at the NCAA’s.

“I am extremely excited to return to my alma mater and coach,” Paluszak said.  “I was part of Otterbein’s very first appearance in the national tournament in 1993, and eventually played in three. There is nothing better than playing at the highest level of competition, and I look forward to recruiting the state’s top student-athletes to ensure the program’s success.

“I will give my student-athletes the necessary tools they need to succeed in the classroom and compete at the highest level on the course,” Paluszak added.

Paluszak, a Westerville resident, works in membership sales for Kinsale Golf and Fitness Club in Powell, Ohio. In addition to selling memberships, he networks with local businesses, creates new marketing pieces, and attends seminars with local realtors to help promote the business.

Head Coach Petry Resigns Position
Written July 01, 2009 by Ed Syguda

WESTERVILLE, OHIO—Nathanael Petry resigned his position as head men’s and women’s golf coach at Otterbein to pursue other interests.

A search for his replacement will begin immediately, according to associate athletics director Connie Richardson.

Petry, who just completed his third season at Otterbein, led both the men’s and women’s golf teams into the NCAA Division III championships in 2009. The women’s team placed fifth while the men’s squad finished 13th.

Trabue Selected to All-America Team
Written May 19, 2009 by Adam Prescott

WESTERVILLE, OHIO – Senior Heath Trabue has earned a spot on the Division III PING All-America Third-Team, announced the Golf Coaches Association of America (GCAA) Monday afternoon.

Heath Trabue

The Upper Arlington native recently finished tied for 22nd at the NCAA Championships, held last week at the PGA Village Golf Club in Port St. Lucie, Florida. The team as a whole finished 13^th in their first trip to the national event since 2006.

Trabue, who did not participate in the NCAA’s as a freshman when the team qualified, reflected on receiving such an accolade.

“I worked hard and I played well this season, so that was really enough for me,” Trabue said. “I was content and knew I had a good season, but at the same time it’s pretty cool to be named All-America.”

This season, Trabue held one of the top stroke averages in the Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) and was named the conference golfer of the week for his performance in the Jekyll Island Invitational held back in March. His 75.5 strokes per round clustered him among Mount Union’s Lucas Murray and John Carroll’s Blake Furgerson, who were also named third-team All-America. Overall, Trabue was pleased with his senior season.

“I played great in the fall with the exception of one event, and I was able to finish in the top five in every other tournament,” he said. “I’ve never been a very good player in the spring for whatever reason, mainly because it has just always taken me a little while to get going. However, I was able to play pretty solid during the second round of the OAC’s, especially on the back nine, and then I played well at the NCAA’s with the exception of a couple bad swings and a few bad holes.”

With the Cards taking part in an intense event such as the NCAA Championships last week, Trabue spoke on the atmosphere of the tournament and competing on such a big stage.

“We were playing a big time golf course that proved pretty difficult, and then when you add in the extra stuff happening with the scoreboards and all of the volunteers on the course, I just tried to go out and make pars,” Trabue said. “I had a game plan that I developed in the practice round, and I decided not to hit too many drivers. I kept it straight off the tee, and just tried to go fairway to green. I happened to roll in a few putts and ended up playing pretty well.”

A tournament of such magnitude could very easily rattle some golfers, causing them to tighten up and find themselves unable to relax. Playing a sport such as golf, Trabue understands the importance of staying comfortable and enjoying the game, while maintaining focus at the same time. It is not uncommon for Trabue’s followers to see him very lively and joyful while playing a round of golf.

“The perception people have of golfers is that they are supposed to have a dead stare on their faces and not talk to anyone or look at the gallery,” said Trabue. “Many think that if you don’t do those things than you’re not focused, but I feel there are very few people who are more focused than me on a golf course. If someone comes out to see me play or claps after I hit a shot, then I’m not going to ignore them. In golf there are a few minutes in between shots where I can chat with the gallery or joke with whomever.”

Having started golfing at the age of three, Trabue began learning how to swing a golf club by standing across from right-handed golfers and mirroring their swing. Because of this, he initially began as a left-handed golfer. By the age of six, he converted to a right-handed swing and has played that way ever since.

A broadcasting major, Trabue seriously considered transferring to play golf at Ohio University nearly two years ago. After weighing all options, he decided to remain at Otterbein, thus leading him to successful junior and senior campaigns. If you ask him, Trabue will explain that his decision to remain a Cardinal has most definitely worked out for the best.

“There are a lot of things that I’ve gotten to do at Otterbein that I wouldn’t have been able to do other places,” admitted Trabue. “Being a broadcasting major is tough when you play a sport, because there are tons of scheduling conflicts. Overall it’s been great because staying at Otterbein has allowed me to get involved in many activities that I may have missed out on elsewhere.”

Because of his area of study and certain class requirements, Trabue has had to make the commitment of attending WOBN and WOCC staff meetings at 4:00 p.m. throughout certain weeks, also the same time as golf practice. As a result, Trabue often went to the course by himself when he was free to make sure he obtained an adequate amount of practice and preparation.

In past fall seasons, Trabue handled the duties of being the WOBN radio play-by-play announcer for both football and basketball games while also staying committed to the golf team. With many people finding it difficult to manage their time in college, it is those traits of dedication, organization, and responsibility that have allowed Trabue to earn the title of an All-American.

With his collegiate career over, Trabue will play in the Ohio Amateur Qualifier next Tuesday, May 26 at the Rattlesnake Ridge Golf Club in Sunbury, Ohio. He will tee off at 8:27 a.m.
 

Cardinals Take 13th at NCAA Championships
Written May 16, 2009 by Adam Prescott

Otterbein Slips to Ninth Place After Conclusion of Third Round
Written May 15, 2009 by Adam Prescott

Cards Sit Sixth After Second Round of NCAA's
Written May 14, 2009 by Adam Prescott

Otterbein in Eighth Place After Day One of NCAA Championships
Written May 13, 2009 by Adam Prescott

Cards Claim Victory in OAC Tournament, Advance to NCAA's
Written May 1, 2009 by Adam Prescott

WESTERVILLE, OHIO – The Otterbein men’s golf team will make their first trip to the NCAA Championships in three years after winning the 2009 Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) Tournament, held Thursday and Friday at New Albany Country Club. The Cardinals earned the NCAA automatic qualifier spot by finishing with a two-day team total of 639, 13 strokes ahead of second-place finisher Mount Union (652). The NCAA Championships will be held May 13-16 at the PGA Golf Club in Port St. Lucie, Florida.

Overall, 44 golfers from nine OAC schools participated in the tournament, with Heidelberg’s Zack Koinis earning medalist honors for the second year in a row with a two-day total of 150 (74-76)

Otterbein was led by senior Heath Trabue, who finished alone in third place with a total score of 156 (81-75). Senior Mike Ruffing shot back-to-back 80’s to finish in a tie for seventh while sophomore Alex Stansell recorded a total score of 162 (83-79) to finish in a tie for ninth. The top-ten overall finishers earn All-Conference honors.

Freshman Brock Neighbors just missed cracking the top ten, as he recorded a 164 (86-78) to finish in a tie for 11^th. Taylor Ford, also a freshman, rounded out the Cardinal finishers with a 168 (83-85), good enough to finish tied for 22^nd.

Winning the OAC’s and qualifying for the NCAA’s is a special feeling for Ruffing and Trabue, the lone seniors on this year’s squad.

“It’s incredible,” said Ruffing. “We had a couple of heartbreaks the last two years, but we were able to put it all together this year. I don’t think it’s hit me quite yet, but it’s just incredible.”

With a double-digit lead after day one, Trabue reflected on the approach and mindset of the team being just 18 holes from advancing.

“I’m proud of how our guys played today,” he said. “With a 12-13 stroke lead, we just had to keep our nose clean and play smart, and we did that.”

With five freshman and two sophomores completing the total Otterbein season roster, the group illustrated their balance and well-roundedness with all five players scoring well in the two-day event.

“The reason why we won this tournament is because Alex, Brock, and Taylor were able to shoot in the high 70’s or low 80’s," said Trabue. "Other teams had to take scores in the upper 80’s and into the 90’s, so the reason we were able to win is because we kept everyone in a very short range of one another.”

“I couldn’t be more proud of our young guys to step up in the worst conditions on maybe the toughest course we have played all year,” added Ruffing. “They were just awesome."

Ruffing, who played with Koinis in the last pairing, earned All-OAC honors for the second year in a row. However, while Ruffing entered the last round in contention to win the entire tournament, he knew that the main objective was to stay out of trouble and maintain the team lead.

"I didn’t think too much about winning, even though I was paired with Zack,” he explained. “I was just trying to get into the clubhouse with my nose clean and without many mistakes.”

Head Coach Nathanael Petry, who was named the OAC men’s golf coach of the year a week after earning the same award for women’s golf, was quick to express his happiness after the team secured the victory.

“It’s unbelievable,” he said. “When I came into the program we had been tops in the league for nine years, and during my first year we were unable to achieve our goal of winning the conference. It’s been a little bit disappointing how the past two seasons have ended, but it’s finally paid off.”

“I’m extremely happy that Mike and Heath get the chance to go to the NCAA’s as seniors,” added Petry. “They’ve worked so hard their entire careers, and they came to Otterbein with the focus of going to nationals. It hadn’t panned out the past couple of years, but now it has.”

With mother nature playing a role during both days, the perseverance and determination of the five players may have been the reason Otterbein concluded Friday afternoon on top of the leader board after leading the competition nearly wire-to-wire.

“My guys were just so focused,” Petry said. “I told them that no matter what we’re going through, the accomplishment of reaching our goal is worth the struggle. Making it to the NCAA Championships is worth putting up with an hour or two of rain. They didn’t buckle under the pressure of the conditions, and that’s what made the difference.”

The tournament victory marks the first time in Otterbein history that both the men’s and women’s teams of the same sport will send their squads to the NCAA Championships in the same season.

Upon being notified of the history making topic, an emotional Petry couldn’t help but reflect on the individual honor it gives him as a coach.

“It’s an outstanding privilege to be able to coach both teams, but it’s extremely hard to do it part-time,” he said. “I couldn’t do this without my wife allowing me to pursue my dream of getting involved in the game that I love so much. It’s a great achievement to have both groups going to the NCAA’s in the same season, and me being the leader of both teams is very special.”

Muskingum (655), John Carroll (655), and Baldwin-Wallace (667) rounded out the top-five team finishers.

Otterbein has now won 13 of the last 18 OAC men’s golf tournaments.

Otterbein Takes 2nd at Wooster's Nye Intercollegiate
Written April 27, 2009 by Alex Stansell

WOOSTER, OHIO—Otterbein took second place at The Nye Intercollegiate this weekend, hosted by the College of Wooster at the Wooster Country Club.

The team shot 647 (329-318) over the two days.

The Cardinals were led by senior Heath Trabue, who tied for fourth place with a two-day total of 158 (81-77). Also placing in the top 10 was sophomore Alex Stansell, who shot 162 (80-82) for a 10th-place finish.

Freshman Brock Neighbors was a shot behind at 163 (84-79), and placed 11th. Totaling 164 (84-80) was freshman Taylor Ford, good enough for a share of 12th place. Senior Mike Ruffing tied for 19th, totaling 166 for the two days.

The tournament was won by Baldwin-Wallace College, who shot a 628. Overall, 51 golfers from nine different schools competed in the event.

Cards Place 3rd at OAC Spring Tournament
Written April 20, 2009 by Alex Stansell

WEST LAFAYETTE, OHIO—The Cardinals placed third at the OAC Spring Tournament this weekend at River Greens Golf Club. The team shot a total of 913 (309-303-301) for 54 holes.

Leading the way for Otterbein was senior Mike Ruffing, who shot 222 (75-75-72) and tied for seventh place. Senior Heath Trabue was close behind, totaling 227 (76-76-75) to tie for 11th.

Freshman Taylor Ford tied for 23rd, shooting 233 (82-76-75). Freshman Ryan Conway was just one stroke behind at 234 (76-78-80). Also competing for Otterbein was freshman Brock Neighbors, who placed 34th.

The tournament was won by John Carroll University, who shot 884 (300-289-295) for the 54 holes.

The scores from the OAC Fall Tournament at Mohawk Golf Club were combined with the spring results to determine the OAC regular-season champion. John Carroll took the title with a 1480 over five rounds. Otterbein, defending regular-season champion, finished second with a 1515.

Cards Place 5th at at Lamkin Strimer Memorial
Written April 13, 2009 by Alex Stansell

DELAWARE, OHIO—Otterbein placed fifth out of 14 teams this weekend at the Lamkin Strimer Memorial Invitational, hosted by Ohio Wesleyan.

The two-day tournament was played at Glenross Golf Club and Oakhaven Golf Club.

Otterbein shot 619 (301-318), and was lead by senior Heath Trabue who tied for 10th place with a 151 (74-77). Sophomore Alex Stansell carded a 77 each day for a 154, good enough for a share of 22nd.

Senior Mike Ruffing (74-83) and freshman Brock Neighbors (76-81) each scored 157, tying for 33rd. Freshman Tyler Green tied for 72nd with a 171.

Overall, 85 golfers from 14 different schools competed in the tournament, which was won by Olivet College.

Cards Place 8th at Denison's Ted Barclay
Written April 6, 2009 by Alex Stansell

GRANVILLE, OHIO- Otterbein took eighth place this weekend at the Ted Barclay Spring Invitational hosted by Denison at Granville Golf Club.

The Cards shot 616 (312-304) over the two days.

Freshman Brock Neighbors led the Cards with a two-day total of 153 (79-74), good enough for a share of 22^nd place. Senior Mike Ruffing (75-80) and freshman Taylor Ford (78-77) had totals of 155 to tie for 31^st.

Freshman Dave Devore tied for 50^th (83-74), and senior Heath Trabue rounded out the Cards lineup, with a two-day total of 159 (80-79).

Overall, 85 golfers from 14 schools competed in the event. The tournament was won by DePauw University, which carded a total of 585 (294-291).

Trabue Earns OAC Player of the Week Honors
Written March 23, 2009 by Ed Syguda

WESTERVILLE, OHIO—Heath Trabue, a senior from Columbus (Upper Arlington High School), was selected Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) men’s golfer of the week, the OAC released Monday.

Trabue shot a 232 (79-76-77) to finish in a tie for 52nd at the Jekyll Island Collegiate held Friday, Saturday and Sunday at the Oleander Golf Course in Jekyll Island, Ga. There were 150 golfers in the tournament.

The Cardinals shot a 933 (314-308-311), finishing with a share of 14th place in the 27-team field.

Otterbein is scheduled to compete next at the Denison Invitational April 3-4 at the Granville Golf Club in Granville.

Seniors Trabue and Ruffing Lead Cards in Fall Season
Written Oct. 26, 2008 by Alex Stansell

WESTERVILLE, OHIO—The Otterbein College men’s golf team had a successful fall season highlighted by three second-place finishes. The team was very young, with the exceptions of seniors Heath Trabue and Mike Ruffing, who led the team in stroke averages with 73.7 and 75.7, respectively.

Coach Nathaniel Petry was pleased with the team’s growth toward the end of the season.

“We were very young this season,” Petry said. “It took awhile, but we had started to play for the right reasons. I am very excited for the spring season. I look forward to the team playing their best golf, and setting themselves up to be successful at the OAC Tournament at New Albany Country Club.”

Freshman Brock Neighbors averaged 76.6 for the Cards, and he was followed by sophomore Alex Stansell, who averaged 77.2. Freshman Dave Devore rounded out the top five for Otterbein, averaging 77.3.

Otterbein Finishes Fourth at Wittenberg Invitational
Written Oct. 8, 2008 by Adam Prescott

SPRINGFIELD, OHIO – Otterbein took fourth place at the Wittenberg Fall Invitational on Tuesday in Springfield.

The Cardinals were paced by senior/Heath Trabue, who posted a two-day total of 150 (76-74), which was good for 13th place.

Sophomore Alex Stansell finished in a tie for 15th place with a total of 152 (77-75) while senior Mike Ruffing’s 156 (82-74) landed him in a tie for 26^th

Freshman Dave DeVore (157) and Brock Neighbors (158) finished in ties for 32th and 36th place, respectively.

Overall, 87 individuals from 15 different teams competed in the event. Cnetre College took home the title, edging second place Cedarville by two strokes.

The Wittenberg Invitational was the last event of the fall for Otterbein. They will next return to action in the spring.
 

Trabue Leads Way as Otterbein Finishes Second at DePauw Classic
Written Oct. 6, 2008 by Adam Prescott

CLAYTON, INDIANA – Otterbein placed three golfers in the top ten as they earned a second place finish at the DePauw Small College Classic this past weekend.

Senior Heath Trabue led the way for the Cards by posting a two-day total of 148 (68-80) to finish in fifth place. Trabue was named to the All-Tournament Second Team.

Senior Mike Ruffing and freshman Brock Neighbors finished in a tie for ninth place.  Ruffing (78-73), and Neighbors (76-75), each posted totals of 151.

Freshman Dave DeVore (80-73) finished in a tie for 14^th place while sophomore Alex Stansell (81-75) finished 18^th.

Overall, 75 total golfers from 12 different teams were represented. The Cards finished seven strokes back of host DePauw.

Otterbein next travels to take part in the Wittenberg Invitational on Tuesday at the Winding Knoll Golf Course in Springfield.
 

Cardinals Collect Third Place Finish at Mount Union Invitational
Written Sep. 30, 2008 by Adam Prescott

WESTERVILLE, OHIO – Otterbein  finished third at the Mount Union Invitational held Sunday and Monday at Tannenhauf Golf Club in Alliance behind a fourth place individual finish from Heath Trabue.

Trabue, a senior from Columbus (Upper Arlington H.S.), used a two-day total of 144 (72-72) to finish in a tie for fourth place. The tie was with John Carroll golfer Blake Ferguson, who’s team won the Invitational with a one-over-par score of 569, 19 strokes ahead of second place finisher Mount Union.

Senior Mike Ruffing finished in a tie for eight place by posting a two-day total of 147 (75-72), while freshman Dave DeVore also finished in the top 25 by shooting a ten-over-par 152 with back to back rounds of 76.

Freshman Brock Neighbors used a score of 153 (75-78) to finish in a tie for 27th place, while sophomore Alex Stansell recorded a 157 (77-80), good enough to finish tied for 38th.

The Cardinals next return to action when they travel to Clayton, Indiana to take part in the DePauw Classic at Deer Creek Golf Club.

Cardinals Finish Second at OAC Fall Invitational
Written Sep. 24, 2008 by Adam Prescott

Tiffin, OH – Otterbein men’s golf team placed second at the OAC Invitational hosted by Heidelberg this past weekend at the Mohawk Golf and Country Club in Tiffin, Ohio.

The Cardinals were led by senior Heath Trabue, who finished second overall with a two-day total of 144 (74-70). Fellow senior Mike Ruffing used a two-day total of 149 (71-78) to finish fourth place overall.

Sophomore Alex Stansell also finished among the top ten golfers, using a two-day total of 152 (79-73) to earn seventh place.

Freshman Brock Neighbors and Ryan Conway rounded out the Otterbein scoring by finishing with totals of 157 and 172, respectively.

All 11 Ohio Athletic Conference schools were represented as 66 total golfers competed over the weekend.

The Cardinals next travel to Alliance, Ohio this weekend to participate in the Mount Union Invitational held at Tannenhauf Country Club.

Cards Share Sixth at Lamkin OWU Intercollegiate
Written Sept. 17, 2008 by Ed Syguda

DELAWARE, OHIO—Otterbein took a share of sixth place at the 36-hole Lamkin Ohio Wesleyan Intercollegiate held Tuesday at the Oakhaven Golf Club in Delaware. Eleven schools competed in the one-day event.

Host Ohio Wesleyan won, shooting a 580 (292-288), and was followed by Carnegie Mellon, with a 593 (298-295), Denison, 595 (299-296), DePauw, 598 (302-296),  Baldwin-Wallace, 599 (298-301),  and Otterbein, 603 (305-298).

Freshman Brock Neighbors turned in the Cardinals best performance, shooting a 148 (75-73) to take 12th place. Otterbein placed four golfers in the top 30, including senior Mike Ruffing, who tied for 19th with a 151 (78-73); senior Heath Trabue, tied for 20th with a 152 (77-75); and sophomore Alex Stansell, tied for 29th with a 153 (75-78).

Otterbein is next scheduled to compete at the Ohio Athletic Conference fall championship Sept. 22 at Mohawk Golf Club in Tiffin.

Otterbein Finishes Tied for Second at the Auld Crafters Kisor Classic
Written September 15, 2008 by Adam Prescott

PATASKALA, OHIO – Otterbein men’s golf team finished tied for second in the Auld Crafters Kisor Classic held Friday and Saturday at Cumberland Trail Golf Club in Pataskala.

The Cardinals finished with a two-day total of 607 (304-303) to finish ten strokes back of the first-place finisher Ohio Dominican.

Heath Trabue, a senior from Columbus (Upper Arlington), led the way for Otterbein by finishing tied for second place overall with a three-over-par 147 (74-73). Trabue actually finished in a three-way tie for first place after 36 holes, but lost in a playoff. Brock Neighbors, a freshman from Westerville (South), finished second for Otterbein and tied for tenth overall with a two-day total of 152 (77-75).

Senior Mike Ruffing (Hudson) and freshman Dave DeVore (Canton/GlenOak) finished in a tie for 16^th place after posting a total of 154.

Also finishing in the top 25 was sophomore Alex Stansell (Fairfield), who recorded a total of 157 (77-80).

The Cardinals head back to action on Tuesday, playing in the Ohio Wesleyan Tournament at Oakhaven Golf Club in Delaware.

Cards Finish Second at OAC Championships
Written April 30, 2008 by Zach Manoogian

WESTERVILLE, OHIO—The Cards finished second in the Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) Championship held Thursday and Friday at Colonial Golfers Club in Harrod. 

Otterbein finished with a two-day total of 631 (310-321) to finish 11 strokes back of first-place finisher Mount Union. 

Ty Lucas, a senior from Sunbury (Big Walnut High School), and Mike Ruffing, a junior from Hudson, earned All-OAC honors for the Cardinals.  Lucas finished tied for third with a total score of 153 (77-76), while Ruffing tied for eighth in the field with a score of 156 (74-82).

Following the first day, the Cards were just three strokes off the lead. 

“The course played extremely tough on day two, making our comeback that much harder, but the guys played as tough as they could all the way to the end,” said Otterbein head coach Nathanael Petry. 

“The team had a good year and just missed out in the end by a few shots,” Petry said.  “The guys worked really hard throughout the year. I am very proud of the way the seniors responded this season, giving me their best golf.”

The second-place finish ends a successful season for the Cards, which included a regular-season OAC championship.
 

Cards Prep for OAC Championships
Written April 23, 2008 by Zach Manoogian

WESTERVILLE, OHIO—Otterbein golfers are busy readying themselves for the Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) Men’s Golf Tournament, hosted by Ohio Northern this Thursday and Friday at Colonial Golfers Club in Harrod. 

The Cards, who were the OAC regular-season champs, are seeking to win their 13th OAC championship overall and 10th in the past 11 years.

“This is a very exciting week,” said head coach Nathanael Petry.  “The guys have worked really hard this spring and are ready to compete for an OAC championship.” 

A victory this weekend would earn the Cards a birth in the NCAA Championship, a prize that has the Cards excited.  “I have five guys who are hungry to experience their first national tournament,” Petry said. 

Cards Win OAC Regular Season
Written April 17, 2008 by Zach Manoogian

WESTERVILLE, OHIO—Otterbein captured the Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) regular-season championship with a first-place finish at the OAC Spring Invitational held Saturday and Sunday at River Greens Golf Course in West Lafayette. 

Otterbein finished with a three-day total of 886 (298-295-293) to finish ten strokes better than second-place finisher John Carroll (896). 

Coach Nathanael Petry noted how proud he was of his team, who were playing without Heath Trabue, a junior from Columbus (Upper Arlington High School), due to a shoulder injury.  “The team showed a lot of character going out and winning this tournament a man short,” Petry said. 

Mike Ruffing, a junior from Hudson, led the Cards with a three-round score of 220 (74-73-73) to finish tied for second in the field.  Ty Lucas, a senior from Sunbury (Big Walnut), and Adam Green, a freshman from Johnstown (Johnstown-Monroe), finished one-stroke behind Ruffing, each shooting a 221.  Lucas shot rounds 71, 74 and 73, while Green shot rounds of 75, 74 and 72. 

Grant Smith, a senior from Greenfield (McClain), and Alex Stansell, a freshman from Fairfield, rounded out the scoring for the Cards with scores of 224 (78-74-72) and 241(80-82-79), respectively. 

 “The team is playing its best golf of the season,” Petry noted.  “It should make the last two weeks very exciting.” 

Cards Place Third at Cincinnati
Written April 2, 2008 by Zach Manoogian

WESTERVILLE, OHIO—The Otterbein men’s golf team earned a third-place finish at the Cincinnati Invitational which concluded Monday at Elks Run Golf Club in Batavia. 

The Cardinals combined for a score of 936 (307-320-309) to finish behind Cincinnati (899) and Malone College (925) in the three-round event. 

Heath Trabue, a junior from Columbus (Upper Arlington High School), led the way for the Cards, finishing fourth with a three-day total of 222 (72-75-75).  The Cards were also help by Grant Smith, a senior from Greenfield (McClain), who placed 16th, carding a 234 (78-79-77).  Mike Ruffing, a junior from Hudson, placed 26th with a 242 (77-87-78). 

Rounding out the scoring for the Cardinals were Adam Green, a freshman from Johnstown (Johnstown-Monroe), and Ty Lucas, a senior from Sunbury (Big Walnut), posting scores of 247 (80-88-79) and 248 (87-79-82), respectively. 

Cards Finish Second at OAC Fall Invite
Written Sept. 17, 2007 by Don Middleton

WESTERVILLE, OHIO ―The Otterbein men’s golf team finished in second place at the OAC Fall Men’s Golf Invite Saturday.  The Cardinals shot rounds of 152-304 (456) at Fowler’s Mill golf course in Chesterland, Ohio.

Tournament host John Carroll won the event by four strokes over Otterbein after rounds of 150-302 (452).  Lucas Murray of Mount Union won medalist honors after a shooting a 1-over par 108. 

Three Cardinals golfers finished in the top-5 as senior Ty Lucas, junior Mike Ruffing and freshman Adam Green all shot 5-over par (112).  Junior Heath Trabue shot a tournament total 120 (42-78) and finished in 21st place.  Freshman Alex Stansell finished tied for 41st place after firing off rounds of 44-86 (130). 

The Cardinals return to action Sept. 22-23 when they travel to Springfield, Ohio to play in the Wittenberg Fall Golf Invitational.

Miller Earns Academic All-America Honors a Third Time
Written June 12, 2007 by Ed Syguda

WESTERVILLE, OHIO—Otterbein golfer Andy Miller was named to the 2007 ESPN The Magazine Academic All-America At-Large first team as selected by the College Sports Information Director’s of America (CoSIDA).

This marked the third straight year that Miller, from Xenia, has earned Academic All-America honors. In 2006, he was named to the second team and, in 2005, the third team.

Miller graduated magna cum laude from Otterbein Sunday with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. The golfer majored in finance, with a minor in economics, and made the dean’s list all 12 quarters.

He earned many honors this season, including the Jack Nicklaus Award, which is presented annually to the national player of the year in NCAA Divisions I, II and III and the NAIA by the Golf Coaches Association of America (GCAA). Miller finished with a share of second place at the NCAA Division III Championships this season, earning All-America honors for the fourth time in his career.

Andy Miller Receives Jack Nicklaus Award
Written June 1, 2007 by Ed Syguda

WESTERVILLE, OHIO—Otterbein golfer Andy Miller was named the recipient of the Jack Nicklaus Award, which is presented annually to the national player of the year in NCAA Divisions I, II and III and the NAIA by the Golf Coaches Association of America (GCAA).

Miller, a senior from Xenia (Xenia High School), finished with a share of second place at the NCAA Division III Championships this season, earning All-America honors for the fourth time in his career. A three-time All-Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) performer and a two-time OAC Tournament medallist, Miller carried a 73.3-stroke average over 25 rounds of golf in 2006-07.

The All-America has excelled in the classroom too.

He was named to the 2007 ESPN The Magazine Academic All-District IV Men’s At-Large first team as selected by the College Sports Information Director’s of America (CoSIDA). This marked the third-straight year he has earned this award. In 2005, he went on to earn third team Academic All-America honors, and, last season, was named to the Academic All-America second team. Miller is eligible for Academic All-America consideration again this year.

Miller also earned the Clyde A. Lamb Scholar-Athlete Award this spring, which is presented to the top male and female senior student-athlete at each of the ten institutions which make up the OAC. The golfer is majoring in finance with a minor in economics and has made the Otterbein Dean’s List all 11 quarters.

Andy Miller Earns Academic All-Region Honors
Written May 25, 2007 by Ed Syguda

WESTERVILLE, OHIO—Otterbein golfer Andy Miller was named to the 2007 ESPN The Magazine Academic All-District IV Men’s At-Large first team as selected by the College Sports Information Director’s of America (CoSIDA).

For Miller, a senior from Xenia (Xenia High School), this marked the third straight year he has earned this award. In 2005, he went on to earn third team Academic All-America honors, and, last season, was named to the Academic All-America second team. Miller is eligible for Academic All-America consideration again this year.

The golfer is majoring in finance with a minor in economics and has made the Otterbein Dean’s List all 11 quarters.

A three-time All-Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) performer and a two-time OAC Tournament medallist, Miller carried a 73.3-stroke average over 25 rounds of golf this season, and advanced into the NCAA Division III Men’s Golf Championships. He finished with a share of second place at the national tournament, earning All-America honors for the fourth time in his career.

Academic All-District IV team members are selected through voting by CoSIDA, a 2,000-member organization consisting of sports public relations professionals for colleges and universities in the United States and Canada. District IV encompasses the states of Alabama, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and Tennessee.

Andy Miller Finishes 2nd at NCAA Championships
Written May 18, 2007 by Ed Syguda

FISHERS, INDIANA—Andy Miller, a senior from Xenia, earned All-America honors a fourth time, finishing with a share of second place with a 295 at the NCAA Division III Men’s Golf Championships, which concluded today.

Miller finished eight strokes behind medallist Clinton Dammann, from St. John’s University, who shot a 1-under-par 287 over the four rounds. St. John’s also won the national championship. Huntingdon College’s Jacob Collinsworth also shot 295 for the tournament.

Miller shot a 3-over-par 75 today at the Hawthorns Golf and Country Club. The four-time All-America finished with an even-par 72 Thursday, which followed back-to-back 74’s over the first two rounds held Tuesday and Wednesday.

As a freshman in 2004, Miller finished 28th at the NCAA Championships. He placed 38th in 2005, and 13th in 2006.

Andy Miller Heads to NCAA Championships
Written May 7, 2007 by Ed Syguda

WESTERVILLE, OHIO—Three-time All-America Andy Miller, a senior from Xenia, was selected to compete in the NCAA Division III Men’s Golf Championships, the NCAA released today.

This marks Miller’s fourth trip to the national championship, which is scheduled for May 15-18 at the Hawthorns Golf and Country Club and Prairie View Golf Club in Indiana.

“I think he has a great chance of winning,” said Otterbein head coach Nathanael Petry. “He’s had an outstanding career at Otterbein and truly deserves to compete against the best at the end of his collegiate career.”

Miller, who holds the school career record of 11 tournament wins, heads into the championships ranked second in head-to-head competition among NCAA Division III players, according to Golfstat.

The All-America won three tournaments, averaging 73.2 strokes a round his senior season. Miller has recorded 34 top-10 finishes over his career.

As a freshman in 2004, Miller finished 28th at the NCAA’s. He placed 38th in 2005, and 13th in 2006.

Cards Finish Second at OAC Championships
Written April 27, 2007 by Ed Syguda

WESTERVILLE, OHIO--The Otterbein men’s golf team finished second at the Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) Men’s Golf Championships held Thursday and Friday at the Cumberland Trail Golf Club in Pataskala.

The Cardinals, nine-time defending OAC champion, shot 604 (306-298) for the 36-hole tournament, which was won by Mount Union. The Purple Raiders finished with a 595 (296-299).

All-America Matt Collins, a senior from Columbus (Worthington Kilbourne High School), and Mike Ruffing, a sophomore from Hudson, earned All-OAC honors by finishing in the top ten. The pair shared eighth place, each shooting a 151. Collins shot rounds of 74 and 77, and Ruffing, 77 and 74.

Three-time All-America Andy Miller, a senior from Xenia, and Ty Lucas, a senior from Sunbury (Big Walnut), just missed all-conference honors, each shooting 152 for a share of 11th place. Miller tallied rounds of 79 and 73 while Lucas fired a pair of 76’s.

Heath Trabue, a sophomore from Columbus (Upper Arlington), took a share of 14th with a 154 (79-75).

Cards Prep for OAC Championships
Written April 24, 2007 by Liz Goodman

WESTERVILLE, OHIO—Falling short by a mere three strokes, the Otterbein men’s golf team finished second at last weekend’s Strimer Memorial Invitational.

Tallying 304 points in the contest, the Cardinals were led by All-America Andy Miller, a senior from Xenia, who earned medallist honors for the 10th time in his career. Miller marked his scorecard with a two-round total of 143.

“Andy did a great job this weekend in getting his 10th career individual victory,” said head coach Nathanael Petry. “That is a great accomplishment; one that is deserving for Andy and all his hard work and dedication to being the best he can be.” 

The second highest Otterbein finish came from Heath Trabue, a sophomore from Columbus (Upper Arlington), who scored a 148.

Petry believes that the high point of the tournament was the second day of competition. “I thought we did a great job the second day of putting in a good fight,” Petry said.

“We put together a great charge and put a round together that gave us a chance to win. I am very proud of how our guys fight through adverse circumstances.  I have seen these guys develop a lot of heart over my last three years with them.”

The Cardinals will look ahead to this weekend’s Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) Men’s Golf tournament, hosted by Capital University. According to Petry, the 13-time winners and nine-time defending OAC champions have no intent of breaking tradition.

“We are really looking forward to the challenge of conference this week,” Petry said.

In addition to the test the OAC tournament will present, the men are also focused on the national appearance that would result from a high finish. “Conference tournaments always bring on a little more pressure than a regular-season event,” he said. “With nationals riding on the line, we will come out very focused.”

The Cardinals, nine-time defending OAC champions, shoot for their tenth-straight conference title, beginning Thursday at Cumberland Trail in Pataskala.

Cards Wins Second Straight Tournament
Written April 17, 2007 by Liz Goodman

WESTERVILLE, OHIO--The men’s golf team notched their second tournament victory of the season last weekend at the Wooster Invitational. 

The Cardinals turned in a two-round total of 630, topping second-place Olivet College by six strokes.

All-America Andy Miller, a senior from Xenia, took home medallist honors for the first time this spring. The senior shot a 149.

“Andy is very focused on winning every tournament that he plays in and it doesn't surprise me that he would win a tournament that was so difficult,” said Otterbein head coach Nathanael Petry.

Heath Trabue, a sophomore from Columbus (Upper Arlington), and Matt Collins, a senior from Columbus (Worthington Kilbourne), turned in the next highest Cardinal finishes. The pair tied for sixth place, each shooting a 156.

Considering the trying weather and the team’s competitive drive, Petry was exceptionally pleased with the victory. “I think the highlight of the win was our team attitude the second day. We were extremely focused and confident that we could make the comeback,” he said. “It was a very gratifying day for me as a coach.”

According to Petry, the team needs to play one round at a time to ensure future victories. “What we learned from this tournament is that we have to finish our rounds better. This will really help us in our post-season success.”

The Cardinals will travel to Delaware this weekend to compete in the Strimer Invitational, hosted by Ohio Wesleyan. “I anticipate that Ohio Wesleyan will be a great challenge with a great field. I also believe that our team will be up for the challenge and look to continue our streak,” Petry said.

OAC Names Miller Golfer of the Week
Written April 2, 2007 by Ed Syguda

WESTERVILLE, OHIO—Three-time All-America Andy Miller, a senior from Xenia, was selected Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) men’s golfer of the week, the OAC released today.

Miller shot a four-over-par 148 (73-75) to finish second, two strokes out of first place, at the Capital Purple & White held last Friday and Saturday at the Players and Foxfire golf clubs in Lockbourne.

Otterbein, placing four of its golfers in the top five, won the seven-team tournament, shooting a 606 (297-309). Muskingum finished second, 32 strokes back, with a 638 (315-323).

Otterbein is scheduled to compete at Denison’s Ted Barclay Spring Invitational this Saturday and Sunday at the Granville Golf Course.

Cards Prep for Purple & White
Written March 29, 2007 by Liz Goodman

WESTERVILLE, OHIO—After notching a sixth-place tie at its spring season debut tournament at the Jekyll Island Invitational, the Otterbein men’s golf team looks forward to their first Ohio tournament this weekend.

“I feel that we did very well, being our first tournament of the year” said first-year head coach Nathanael Petry about the Georgia tournament.  “It was a very demanding golf course, one that two of my top five have never seen before. I believe that we got some good work done and that the trip was a nice stepping stone to a very successful season.”

Receiving top-notch performances from senior standouts Andy Miller, from Xenia, and Matt Collins, from Columbus (Worthington Kilbourne High School), Petry credits the duo as being the team’s foundation.

“I think that our biggest strength is the leadership that we have in our two upperclassmen that have been playing great golf for their whole careers,” he said of Miller and Collins. “Our success will lie in finding consistency in our four and five men.”

Miller a three-time All-America selection, finished in a seventh-place tie with a three-round total of 218 (71-74-73). Collins turned in a 223 (77-72-74) to fall into a six-way tie for 17th place in the field of 132 golfers.

The next highest Otterbein finish came from sophomore Heath Trabue, from Columbus, (Upper Arlington), who tied for 55th place with a 233 (77-78-78).

The Cardinals, ranked 22nd in the NCAA Division III, will set their sights to the upcoming tournament that will be hosted this weekend by Capital University. Petry is anxious for the team to have another chance to compete.

“This weekend will be very competitive in that it will be our first tournament back in Ohio and we want to get off to a good start,” he said. “Our team goal is to get better every day.”

Cards Win Denison Fall Classic
Written Oct. 9, 2006 by Liz Goodman

GRANVILLE, OHIO—For the first time this fall, Otterbein topped all competition, winning the Denison Fall Classic held Saturday and Sunday at the Granville Golf Club.

“I’m obviously very excited,” said first-year head coach Nathanael Petry. “This is my first win as a coach.”

In addition to coach Petry, the win was also a first for new A-team players, Steve Kennedy and Ty Lucas. “It’s thrilling to see them get a victory,” Petry said of the two players.

Lucas, a senior from Sunbury (Big Walnut), took home a share of second place, tallying a 149 (77-72) while Kennedy, a senior from Bexley, tied for 11th with a 152 (75-77).

Once again bringing home medallist honors for the Cardinals was Andy Miller, a senior from Xenia. The All-American shot a 145 (72-73).

“He didn’t play his greatest golf, but he fought hard,” Petry said. “Poor play for him was good enough for the win.”

According to Petry, this tournament allowed the team to be successful against the most challenging type of competition: themselves.

“Our main competition on the golf course is ourselves,” he said.

The Cardinals will have their last taste of fall competition this weekend as they travel to Myrtle Beach, Fla. for the Gordin Invitational. With a chance to compete against the top 12 teams from last year’s NCAA Division III Championship, the team will face first-rate competition.

“We look to do better there,” Petry said.

Nathanael Petry Named Head Coach
Written May 26, 2006 by Ed Syguda

WESTERVILLE, OHIO—Otterbein announced today the appointment of Nathanael Petry as head men’s golf coach.

Petry, 23, replaces Matt Smith, who stepped down for family reasons after four seasons at the helm of the Otterbein program.

“I believe that Nathanael will be able to carry on the tradition of outstanding golf here at Otterbein College,” said director of athletics Dick Reynolds. “He’s familiar with our program and he’s had an outstanding collegiate career.”

Petry, a 2004 graduate of Mount Vernon Nazarene University, has served as an assistant men’s golf coach at Otterbein since 2005. He is employed in turf management at the New Albany Country Club in New Albany, Ohio.

“This is a great opportunity for me to step into a stellar program,” Petry said. “It has always been a dream of mine to find a job in golf, and coaching is what I love.”

Petry, a native of Uhrichsville, Ohio, earned four varsity letters in golf at Mount Vernon Nazarene where he received his bachelor’s degree in business management. He was a three-time all-conference performer in the American Mideast Conference (AMC), finishing second twice in the AMC tournament. Petry played in two National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics tournaments.

Miller Earns Academic All-America Honors
Written May 26, 2006 by Ed Syguda

Andy Miller

Otterbein golfer Andy Miller was named to the 2006 ESPN The Magazine Academic All-America At-Large second team as selected by the College Sports Information Director’s of America (CoSIDA).

For Miller, a junior from Xenia (Xenia High School), this marked the second straight year he has earned Academic All-America honors. In 2005, he was named to the third team. Miller is majoring in business administration and has made the Otterbein Dean’s List all eight quarters.

A three-time All-Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) performer and a two-time OAC Tournament medallist, Miller helped lead Otterbein to its ninth-straight OAC title and into the NCAA Division III Tournament this season. He carried a 72.8-stroke average over 27 rounds of golf.

Miller Named to CoSIDA Academic Team
Written May 26, 2006 by Ed Syguda

Otterbein golfer Andy Miller was named to the 2006 ESPN The Magazine Academic All-District IV Men’s At-Large first team as selected by the College Sports Information Director’s of America (CoSIDA).

For Miller, a junior from Xenia (Xenia High School), this marked the second straight year he has earned this award. In 2005, he went on to earn third team Academic All-America honors and is eligible for Academic All-America consideration again this year. Miller is majoring in business administration and has made the Otterbein Dean’s List all eight quarters.

A three-time All-Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) performer and a two-time OAC Tournament medallist, Miller helped lead Otterbein to its ninth-straight OAC title and into the NCAA Division III Tournament this season. He carried a 72.8-stroke average over 27 rounds of golf.

Academic All-District IV team members are selected through voting by CoSIDA, a 2,000-member organization consisting of sports public relations professionals for colleges and universities in the United States and Canada. District IV encompasses the states of Alabama, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and Tennessee.

GCAA Name Three Cardinals to Ping All-America Teams
Written May 12, 2006 by Ed Syguda

Three Otterbein golfers were named to Ping All-America teams at the Golf Coaches Association of America (GCAA) national awards banquet held Thursday at the conclusion of the NCAA Division III Men’s Golf Tournament in Lincoln, Neb.

Andy Miller, a junior from Xenia, and Zach Sebert, a sophomore from Grove City, were named to the first team, and Matt Collins, a junior from Columbus (Worthington Kilbourne), was selected to the third team.

The trio, along with teammates Wes Stafford, a senior from Willoughby (South), and Tyler Priest, a senior from Newark (Granville), helped lead Otterbein to a share of sixth place at the NCAA tournament.

The Cardinals shot a 1,224 (308-300-310-306) over the four-day tournament and finished in a tie with Ohio Wesleyan. Host school Nebraska Wesleyan won the national title with an 1,193 (309-289-292-303).

Sebert, who took medallist honors at the Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) championship, turned in Otterbein’s best performance at the NCAA’s, finishing in the top ten to earn All-America honors. Sebert shot a 299 (76-73-76-74) for a share of tenth place.

Miller, a two-time All-American, took a share of 13th with a 302 (73-73-77-79). Miller went into Thursday’s final round sitting eighth and in contention for All-America honors.

Rounding out the Otterbein five were Stafford, who finished in a tie for 36th with a 309 (80-73-79-77), and Collins and Priest, who shared 70th, each shooting 319’s.

Otterbein golfer Zach Sebert, a sophomore from Grove City, earned All-America honors and the Otterbein men’s golf team finished in a sixth-place tie at the NCAA Division III Championships, held at Firethorn Golf Club in Lincoln, Neb.     

Sebert finished the 72-hole event with a 299 (76-73-76-74) for a share of 10th place, while the Cardinals finished with an 88-over-par 1224.  Host Nebraska Wesleyan won the event, shooting a 1193.

After concluding the opening round with a 308, the Cardinals carded their best round of the tournament, finishing the second round with a 300.

The squad shot a 310 and a 306 to close out the final two rounds.  

“We finished our fall season with a sixth-place finish (Gordin Collegiate Classic), and finished in sixth place to end the spring,”  said head men’s golf coach Matt Smith. “I guess we are not a top-five program quite yet, but we will be there in the future.”

Smith said he was pleased with the improvement that Sebert made en-route to his top-ten finish. 

“Zach has made huge strides this season as a first-year starter,“ Smith said. “He is a prime example of a kid who persevered through a freshman learning year and has improved so much.”

The sixth-place finish marks the best showing for Otterbein golf since Smith was named head coach in 2002.

Cards Heading to Lincoln for the NCAA Championships
Released May 1, 2006 by the NCAA

INDIANAPOLIS--- The NCAA Division III Men's Golf Committee has announced the teams and individuals selected to participate in the 2006 NCAA Division III Men’s Golf Championships.

Otterbein has competed in 12 of the last 13 NCAA Division III Tournaments, finishing second twice.

The championships will be held May 8-11, at the Firethorn Golf Club in Lincoln, Nebraska, and will be hosted by Nebraska Wesleyan University.

A total of 120 participants will compete at the 2006 championships. Three teams were selected from each of the six regions. The committee then selected five at-large teams nationally. Therefore, in addition to the first three teams selected in each region, there were also three at-large selections from the south region and two at-large selections from the west region. Five at-large individuals were also selected to compete.

Following are the teams and individuals selected for the 2006 championships:

Northeast
1. Skidmore
2. New York University
3. Salem State

Mid-Atlantic
1. Allegheny
2. Washington & Jefferson
3. St. John Fisher

Individuals: Stephen Goodridge, Rochester

South
1. Methodist
2. Guilford
3. Oglethorpe
4. Huntingdon
5. Emory
6. Rhodes

Individuals: Jerre Maynor, Sewanee and Nathaniel James, Washington & Lee

Great Lakes
1. Otterbein
2. Ohio Wesleyan
3. Hope

Individuals: Tim Fish, Franklin

Central
1. St. John’s (Minnesota)
2. Nebraska Wesleyan
3. Gustavus Adolphus

West
1. Redlands
2. Cal Lutheran
3. La Verne
4. Claremont
5. Texas Lutheran

Individuals: Rode McElreath, McMurry

In the 2005 championships, Guilford College won the team title, shooting a 290 on the final day to finish with a four-day total of 1,174 at the Mission Inn Golf and Tennis Resort in Howey-in-the-Hills, Florida. Redlands took second place finishing twenty-five shots back with a four-day total of 1,199. Guilford’s Colin Clark defeated teammate Dave Patterson on the first hole of the sudden-death playoff to win the individual title.

For more information about the NCAA Division III Golf Championships, log on to www.ncaasports.com. Highlights of the NCAA Division III Men’s Golf Championships will be shown on CBS at 3 p.m. Eastern time, Saturday, July 1. The CBS seasonal show will feature highlights of 17 different NCAA championships that took place during the spring.

Smith Named OAC Coach of the Year
Written May 2, 2006 by Kyle Durban

Coach Smith and 2006 OAC medallist Zach Sebert.

Fourth-year head men’s golf coach Matt Smith was named the Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) “coach of the year”, the OAC released Tuesday.  It is the third-straight season that Smith has received the award. 

“I always tell our players that they should focus on the team first and the individual awards will come,” Smith said.  “This award is a result of the accomplishments of the team and I am proud of what we have done this season.”

The Cardinals, winners of the past nine OAC titles, won this year’s conference tournament by 20 strokes over runner-up Mount Union. 

In 2006, all five Cardinal golfers finished in the top seven at the OAC Tournament, good enough to claim all-conference status.  Sophomore Zach Sebert, from Grove City,  became the third Otterbein golfer in four years to be named the Brian Unk OAC Tournament medallist after finishing with a 1-over-par 145. 

The men’s golf team travels to Lincoln, Nebraska for the 2006 NCAA Division III Golf Championships scheduled for May 8-11 at the Firethorn Golf Club.  Nebraska Wesleyan is hosting the event. 

Cards Win 9th-Straight OAC Title
Written April 28, 2006 by Kyle Durban

The Otterbein men’s golf team shot a 589 (303-286) and won its ninth-straight Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) Championship, held Thursday and Friday at the Fox Meadow Country Club in Medina.

Zach Sebert, a sophomore from Grove City (Grove City High School), took home medalist honors shooting a tournament-best 145 (76-69). All five Cardinal golfers placed in the top seven to earn All-OAC honors.

Mount Union finished 20 strokes behind Otterbein to place second at 609 (304-305) in the field of nine teams. Baldwin-Wallace placed third with a 610 (308-302).

In addition to the Cardinals five top-seven finishers, fourth-year head coach Matt Smith was named the OAC Men's Golf Coach of the Year for the third consecutive year.

“We hung in on the front nine and finished strong,” Smith said. “I always tell my players that we have to play the last couple of holes well, and that’s just what we did.

“To have all five of our players finish in the top seven, it’s just amazing.”

Junior Matt Collins, from Columbus (Worthington Kilbourne) notched a fourth-place finish, carding a 148 (79-69). Senior Tyler Priest, from Newark (Granville), shot a 150 (74-76) to finish in a fifth-place tie with two-time OAC medalist and All-American Andy Miller, a junior from Xenia, who shot a 150 (76-74).

Senior Wes Stafford, from Willoughby (South), rounded out Otterbein’s finishers in seventh with a 151 (72-74).

The Cardinals had carried just a one-stroke lead into Friday’s final round. Despite the slim lead, Smith said the team finished the second round the way he had planned.

“We played solid golf yesterday, but we knew we had to play better golf today,” Smith said. “My guys keep asking me how this team stacks up against all the teams I’ve coached. Based on stats, and what we’ve done in tournaments this year, this is by far the best team I’ve ever coached.”

Sebert, while pleased with his medalist finish, said he was happy to have a lineup where everyone gelled together and played consistent golf.

“I was pleased to shoot a good score and help the team out,” Sebert said. “But our five guys really match up well and we pick each other up. I really like the five we have heading into the national tournament.”

The NCAA Tournament is scheduled for May 8-11 at the Firethorn Golf Club in Lincoln, Neb. Smith said the course in Medina was good preparation for the national tournament.

“From what I’ve heard, the course in Nebraska is much similar to the one we played the last two days,” Smith said. “It’s links-style, with fast greens and a lot of wind. Hopefully, it prepared us well.”

Smith also feels that if the Cardinals play the way they’re capable of, they have a shot at a national championship.

“We’re going to be close,” Smith said. “If the breaks go our way, you never know.”

Cards Go After 9th-Straight OAC Title
Written April 25, 2006 by Kyle Durban

The Otterbein men’s golf team, ranked 5th in NCAA Division III, heads north this Thursday and Friday to defend their conference title at the Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) tournament hosted by Baldwin-Wallace at Fox Meadow in Medina. 

Otterbein, champions of the past eight OAC tournaments, won last year’s event by 17 strokes over second-place Baldwin-Wallace. Andy Miller, a junior from Xenia, took home medallist honors after shooting a 3-under-par 141 (73-68).  The All-American also earned medallist honors as a freshman, carding a 5-over-par 149 (70-79) in 2004.

Miller is just the fifth OAC golfer to take home medallist honors two years in a row.

Two other Otterbein golfers look to earn All-OAC honors for the second season in a row.  Wes Stafford, a senior from Willoughby (South High School), shot a 148 (76-72) to finish in a third-place tie, and Matt Collins, a junior from Columbus (Worthington Kilbourne High School), finished in a tie for sixth place with a 149 (76-73) in 2005.

Head golf coach Matt Smith said choosing five golfers to represent Otterbein this week was the toughest decision he’s had to make in his career.

“This was the hardest decision I have ever had to make as a coach,” Smith said.  “This has been a dream season with the talent that surrounds Otterbein golf. It really saddens me to have to cut the team down to five players."

As of Tuesday, players selected to compete at the OAC tournament were:  

1. Andy Miller, junior, Xenia

2. Matt Collins, junior, Columbus (Worthington High School) 

3. Zach Sebert, sophomore, Grove City

4. Wes Stafford, senior, Willoughby (South High School) 

5. Tyler Priest, senior, Newark (Granville High School)

Sebert Named OAC Player of the Week
Written April 24, 2006 by Craig Coleman

Zach Sebert, a sophomore from Grove City, was named Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) men’s golfer of the week, the OAC released today.

Sebert finished second out of 103 golfers, shooting a 144 (67-77) at the Strimer Memorial Invitational hosted by Ohio Wesleyan April 22-23 at Dornoch and Oakhaven Golf Clubs in Delaware.

The sophomore finished one stroke behind tournament winner Tim Fish, from Franklin, who shot 143 (71-72).

Otterbein finished second in the 17-team field, shooting a 589 (291-298), just one stroke behind tournament champion Ohio Wesleyan, which finished with a 588 (288-300). Franklin finished third with a 601 (296-305), while DePauw followed in fourth at 605 (305-300).

Cards Fall One Shot Short of First at Strimer
Written April 24, 2006 by Craig Coleman

The Otterbein men’s golf team finished one shot behind tournament winner Ohio Wesleyan, and placed second out of 17 teams at the Strimer Memorial Invitational, hosted by Ohio Wesleyan at the Dornoch and Oakhaven Golf Courses in Delaware last weekend.

Otterbein shot 589 (291-298), behind Ohio Wesleyan’s 588 (288-300). Franklin finished third with a 601 (296-305), while DePauw followed in fourth at 605 (305-300).

“I thought we played well,” said fourth-year head coach Matt Smith. “But Ohio Wesleyan played better on their home courses.”

Zach Sebert, a sophomore from Grove City (Grove City High School), finished second out of 103 golfers, shooting a 144 (67-77). The sophomore finished one stroke out of first place, behind tournament medalist Tim Fish, from Franklin, who shot 143 (71-72).

Juniors Andy Miller and Matt Collins also placed in the top five. Miller, from Xenia, finished third with a 145 (75-70), and Collins, from Columbus (Worthington Kilbourne), finished fourth at 146 (72-74).

“Miller, Collins, and Sebert played well this past weekend,” Smith said.

Rounding out the Cardinals top five golfers were seniors Wes Stafford and Matt Cooperrider, who finished tied for 27th and tied for 48th, respectively. Stafford, from Willoughby (South), shot 154 (77-77), and Cooperrider, from Thornville (Sheridan), shot 159 (80-79).

“Senior leadership is the only way that our team will accomplish the goals that we put forth for ourselves,” Smith said. “I am still searching for that for us to be champions at every level.”

Though disappointed in not winning their fourth consecutive tournament, the Cardinals can be pleased that several of their individuals performed very well.

Junior Ty Lucas, from Sunbury (Big Walnut), finished tied for 11th with a 149 (76-73); senior Tyler Priest, from Newark (Granville), tied for 15th with a 151 (77-74); senior Joe Westover, from Westerville (Olentangy), tied with Priest at 151 (74-77); and Steve Kennedy, a junior from Bexley, tied for 22nd at 153 (78-75).

Otterbein goes for its fourth consecutive OAC Championship Thursday and Friday at the Fox Meadows Golf Course in Medina, hosted by Baldwin-Wallace.

“We look forward to defending our OAC Championship,” Smith said.

Collins Named OAC Player of the Week
Written April 17, 2006 by Ed Syguda

Matt Collins, a junior from Columbus (Worthington Kilbourne), was named Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) men’s golfer of the week, the OAC released today.

Collins participated in two tournaments last week, taking medallist honors at Wooster’s Nye Intercollegiate held last Friday and Saturday at the Wooster Country Club. He fired a tournament record 1-under-par 143, including a 3-under-par 69 on the final round.

Otterbein won the Nye by 14 strokes over Ohio Wesleyan, shooting a 596 (302-294) in the 18-team field.

“I was pleased that we shot a 294 in the final round,” said fourth-year head coach Matt Smith. “This golf course was extremely difficult and I wanted to see how we would play the tough course. I am confident that we are learning to play many different types of courses. This will only help us prepare for the OAC's and NCAA's.”

Collins also finished second, with a 147 (71-76), at the Otterbein/Groseclose Invitational held April 10 at the Columbus Country Club. The Cardinals cruised to an 18-stroke win over Ohio Dominican, shooting a 582 (288-294).

Otterbein Dominate Groseclose Invitational
Written April 12, 2006 by Craig Coleman

(COLUMBUS, Ohio)--The Otterbein men’s golf team dominated the Otterbein/Groseclose Invitational held at the Columbus Country Club Monday, finishing first out of 10 teams and shot 582, 18 strokes better than its competition.

Ohio Dominican finished second (600) with Transylvania in third (611).

“Monday was a great day to host a tournament,” said fourth-year head coach Matt Smith. “We had terrific weather and an awesome golf course in Columbus Country Club. This was the largest field of any tournament I have hosted in four years and I was pleased with the outcome. We had 10 quality teams and many individuals.”

Sophomore Zach Sebert, from Grove City (Grove City High School), shot a 7-under-par 137 and took medalist honors for the second week in a row, beating teammate Matt Collins, a junior from Columbus (Wothington Kilbourne), and Ohio Dominican’s Brandon Schilling, both finishing with a 147.

Also finishing in the top 10 were Andy Miller, a junior from Xenia, and senior Matt Cooperrider, from Thornville (Sheridan), both shooting 148, and junior Steve Kennedy, from Bexley, at 149.

Wes Stafford, a senior from Willoughby (South), and Brent Asman, a sophomore from Dublin (Scioto), finished tied for 12th, one stroke behind Kennedy at 150.

“I was proud of our guys because we played solid golf and shot scores of 288-294,” Smith said. “I feel anytime we can shoot a team score of even par on a golf course like Columbus we are making strides in the right direction.”

One of the more impressive aspects of the men’s golf team is its great depth. From top to bottom, Otterbein’s A-Team, B-Team, and individual athletes have competed at or near the top of each tournament this spring. It has, arguably, turned Otterbein into one of the top golf teams in Ohio.

“When I take into consideration that we played 14 players in the tournament I was proud of how we played,” Smith said. “We look forward to playing a tremendous golf course at Wooster this next week.”

Otterbein travels to Wooster Friday and Saturday for the Wooster Invitational, where it has finished in first the past two seasons.

Sebert Named OAC Golfer of the Week
Written by Ed Syguda 04/10/06

Zach Sebert, a sophomore from Grove City, was named Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) men’s golfer of the week, the OAC released today.

Sebert took medallist honors at the University of Cincinnati/University of Dayton Collegiate Invite held April 3-4 at Cloverneck Country Club in Cincinnati. 

The sophomore shot a 152 (78-74) to finish in a three-way tie for first place, but defeated Geoff Newman, from Cincinnati, on the first playoff hole. The other first-place finisher, Sean Gibson, from the University of Toronto, had already left with his teammates and missed the playoff.

After 36 holes Otterbein finished with a 620, followed by Dayton in second (632) and Toronto in third (633).

Sophomore Zach Sebert (Grove City) took medalist honors, beating Sean Gibson of Toronto and Geoff Newman of Cincinnati in a playoff. Sebert finished with a 152 (78-74).

“I thought we played solid,” said fourth-year head coach Matt Smith. “Zach Sebert played outstanding and won individual honors. This was Zach's third win of the season and I couldn't be happier for him.”

Two other Cardinals scored in the top 10 including juniors Matt Collins (Columbus/Worthington Kilbourne), who finished tied for fourth overall at 153 (79-74), and Andy Miller (Xenia), who finished tied for sixth at 154 (77-77).

Rounding out the Cardinal scoring were seniors Joe Westover (Westerville/Olentangy) at 161 (83-78) and Wes Stafford (Willoughby/South) at 162 (84-78).

The first two tournaments of the spring the Cardinals have displayed tremendous potential, finishing first and second, and have shown an ability to compete with the top teams in the nation. Despite Otterbein’s success, however, Smith thinks there is still room on the team to improve.

“The first few tournaments of the spring I am experimenting with our line-up,” Smith said. “This helps me feel confident that come May we have the correct players in our top five.”

Among those top five, and leading the Ohio Athletic Conference in stroke average, are Miller (71.7), Sebert (72.1), and Collins (73.6). The average includes all fall and spring tournaments.

Otterbein returns to the greens to host the Otterbein/Groseclose Invitational at Columbus Country Club, Monday, April 10. The Cardinals won the Groseclose Memorial in 2004 and 2003.

“We are all excited about playing in the Invitational,” Smith said. “We have a great field set for the event and look forward to defending our crown.”

Cards Open Spring with 2nd at Jekyll Island
Written by Craig Coleman 03/28/06

The Otterbein men’s golf team got the spring season off to a great start finishing second out of 24 teams at the Jekyll Island Collegiate Invitational March 24-26 in Jekyll Island, Ga.

“I am thrilled by how we started the spring season,” said fourth-year head coach Matt Smith. “For our first time on green grass since the fall, we played terrific.”

The tournament featured three of the top teams in the nation—Methodist, Huntingdon, and Oglethorpe. Methodist won the tournament with a final team score of 866, while Otterbein finished second (875), followed by Huntingdon in third (878), and Oglethorpe in fourth (883).

Junior Matt Collins (Columbus/Worthington Kilbourne) finished tied for second overall and led the Cardinals with a three-round total of 213 (-3), just two strokes off the lead, including a career low round of 66 on the final day.

Senior Wes Stafford (Willoughby/South) finished tied for seventh at one over par (217).

“Wes Stafford and Matt Collins played outstanding,” Smith said. “Matt shot his college career low round of 66. He shot a 29 on the front nine and birdied the 10th hole.”

Smith added that sophomore Zach Sebert (Grove City) and junior Andy Miller (Xenia) also played solid golf over the weekend. Sebert finished tied for 16th at six over par (222), while Miller tied for 18th at seven over par (223).

Otterbein will compete in its first NCAA Division I tournament under Smith’s tutelage at the UC/Dayton Invitational April 3-4. After this past weekend’s success, Smith looks forward to the competition and is excited to see where the Cardinals stand next to the top teams in Ohio.

Cards Place 6th at the Gordin to Wrap Up Fall
Written by Kyle Durban 10/21/05

The Otterbein men’s golf team concluded their fall season this past weekend with a sixth-place finish at the Gordin Invitational in Myrtle Beach, S.C. 

“Our finish basically speaks for itself,” said fourth-year head coach Matt Smith. “It’s not great, but not terrible. Our standards are so high that sixth place isn’t where we want to be.” 

The Gordin Invitational, a tournament Smith referred to as “mini-nationals,” featured 12 teams that were all ranked in the Golf Coach’s Association of America Top 25 poll released Oct. 14. Four teams were ranked in the top five. 

Otterbein finished the 36-hole event with a 610 (304-306). Guilford College (N.C.) took first-place honors for the second-straight year, shooting a 586 (291-295). 

Andy Miller, a junior from Xenia, led the Cardinals with a 150 (75-75)—good enough to finish in a four-way tie for 11th place. Zach Sebert, a sophomore from Grove City, finished tied for 15th after carding a 151 (73-78).

Other individual finishers for Otterbein were: Heath Trabue, a freshman from Columbus (Upper Arlington High School), tied for 22nd with a 153 (76-77); Tyler Priest, a senior from Newark (Granville), tied for 37th with a 156 (80-76); and Matt Collins, a junior from Columbus (Worthington Kilbourne), tied for 48th with a 159 (80-79).

The Cardinals now have a lengthy break before making preparations for spring—preparations that include emphasis on the national tournament.

“We’re going to take a few months off,” Smith said. “In March, we’ll get back in the flow of things and start focusing on nationals.”

Cards Win Third Straight Invite
Written by Kyle Durban 10/14/05

The Otterbein men’s golf team claimed its third straight tournament title last weekend, winning the
Powerade Collegiate held at River Greens Golf Course in West Lafayette. 

As a team, Otterbein finished with a 425 – 18 strokes ahead of runners-up Malone and Mt. Union (443). In all, 15 teams from Division II, III and NAIA schools competed in the event. 

“We’re coming off three straight tournament wins,” said fourth-year head coach Matt Smith. “I’m very
happy with the way we’ve been playing .” 

The Cardinals held their 18-shot lead heading into the second day of competition when the tournament 
was called due to rain. The final nine holes from Friday were included with the first 18 holes played to 
become a 27-hole event. 

Andy Miller, a junior from Xenia (Xenia High School), led the Cardinals, finishing with a field-best 101 
(35-66). Sophomore Zach Sebert (Grove City) carded a 107 (32-75), while Matt Collins, a junior from 
Columbus (Worthington Kilbourne High School), finished the tournament with a 108 (37-71). 

Otterbein concludes fall play this weekend in Myrtle Beach, S.C. at the Gordin Invitational – a tournament
Smith referred to as “mini-Nationals.” 

“We’re excited about playing against the top 12 teams in the nation,” Smith said. “I’m looking at it as our
Fall national tournament. If we play as well down there as we have up here, we should be fine.”

Cards Come Out Swinging in Fall Ball
Written by Kyle Durban 10/05/05

Although college golf is considered a spring sport, the Otterbein men’s golf team has already put together an impressive showing this fall. 

In three tournaments thus far, the Cardinals have finished no worse than second while claiming two team titles—most recently a championship at the Denison Fall Classic held last Saturday and Sunday in Granville.

Otterbein won the 36-hole event by 25 strokes with a team score of 557 (282-275). Ohio Wesleyan finished in second place with a 582 (288-294). 

Andy Miller, a junior from Xenia (Xenia High School), led the Cardinals by taking home medalist honors, shooting a tournament best 136 (69-67).  He was trailed by teammates Tyler Priest, a senior from Newark (Granville), and Zach Sebert, a sophomore from Grove City, each carding a 137. 

“Top to bottom, we have the most talent that this school has ever had,” said fourth-year head coach Matt Smith. “I wanted to use these fall tournaments—which have, in my mind, some of the best teams in the Midwest—as a measuring stick. My team has exceeded all expectations.”  

The Cardinals opened their fall schedule with a second-place finish at the two-day, 15-team Wittenberg Tiger Invitational Sept. 17-18.  Allegheny won the event by eight strokes. 

Miller finished day two as co-leader, but settled for tournament runner-up after losing a playoff with Allegheny’s Chris Moore. Miller ended the tournament with a team-best, seven-under-par 136 (63-73).

Sebert took home medalist honors by shooting a four-under-par 138 (68-70). Miller shot a three-under-par 139 (71-68) to finish second while Matt Collins, a junior from Columbus (Worthington Kilbourne), finished third with a two-under-par 140 (69-71). 

“We have a lineup that’s starting to gel,” Smith said.  “With the guys that we have, we should shoot under par every tournament.”

Next up for the Cardinals is the Powerade Collegiate held at River Greens Golf Course in West Lafayette this Friday and Saturday. Otterbein placed second in the 17-team tournament a year ago.  The team concludes fall play at the Gordin Invitational Oct. 15-17 in Myrtle Beach, S.C.

Miller Earns Academic All-America Honors
Written by Ed Syguda 06/14/05

Andy Miller, a sophomore golfer from Xenia (Xenia High School), was named to the ESPN The Magazine Academic All-America At-Large Third Team, released today by the College Sports Information Directors of America (CoSIDA).

Miller, who carries a 3.94-grade-point average in business finance, led his teammates and the Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) with a 73.7-stroke average. He was also a third team All-America selection this season by the Golf Coaches Association of America.

The sophomore closed out the 2005 season strong, earning medalist honors in five of the last six tournaments, including the OAC Championships. Miller earned OAC Player of the Week honors four times this season, helping lead Otterbein to its eighth-straight conference title and into the NCAA Championships for the 12th time in the last 13 years.

Each year, CoSIDA selects Academic All-America® teams in 12 programs: football, women’s volleyball, men's soccer, women's soccer, men’s basketball, women’s basketball, baseball, softball, men’s track & field/cross country, women’s track & field/cross country, men’s at-large and women’s at-large.

Miller Named Academic All-District
Written by Justin Hamilton 05/26/05

Sophomore Andy Miller was named to the 2005 ESPN The Magazine Academic All-District IV At-Large team as selected by the College Sports Information Director’s of America (CoSIDA).

Miller, from Xenia (Xenia High School), carries a 3.941-grade-point average in business finance and led the team and the Ohio Athletic Conference with a 73.7-stroke average.

He was named the NCAA Division III “freshman of the year” for men’s golf last season and earned third-team All-America honors in 2005.  Miller played in all 12 tournaments for the Cardinals, who finished the season with a 146-20-2 overall record.  He finished his season at the 2005 NCAA Division III Men’s Golf Championship, where he finished in a tie for 38th place.  The Cardinals placed 11th out of 23 schools as a team.  

Academic All-District IV team members are selected through voting by CoSIDA, a 2,000-member organization consisting of sports public relations professionals for colleges and universities in the United States and Canada. District IV encompasses the states of Alabama, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and Tennessee.

To be eligible, a student-athlete must be a varsity starter or key reserve, maintain a cumulative G.P.A. of 3.20 on a scale of 4.00, have reached sophomore athletic and academic standing at his/her current institution and be nominated by his/her sports information director.

Cards Win 8th Straight OAC Championship
Written by Ed Syguda 04/29/05

The Otterbein men’s golf team claimed its eighth straight Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) championship today, winning the 36-hole tournament by 17 strokes.

The Cardinals, under third-year head coach Matt Smith, shot a 586 (299-287) on the River Greens Golf Course in West Lafayette. Baldwin-Wallace finished second with a 603 (308-295) in the field of nine teams.

“I’m very pleased because we played a great round of golf today,” Smith said. “It was the perfect ending to set us off to the NCAA Championships with the right mind-set.”

Andy Miller, a sophomore from Xenia, took medalist honors for the second straight year. Miller shot a 3-under-par 141 (73-68) to set an OAC Tournament record.

“Andy’s won five tournaments in a row,” Smith said. “I don’t think there is anything more that I can say. His record speaks for itself.

“He very well could be the best player in the country and we’ll see next week (at the NCAA Championships),” Smith added.

Otterbein placed four golfers in the top six, each earning All-OAC honors.

Matt Cooperrider, a junior from Thornville (Sheridan High School), and Wes Stafford, a junior from Willoughby (South), shared third place, each shooting 148 for the 36 holes. Cooperrider shot back-to-back rounds of 74, and Stafford shot rounds of 76 and 72 on the par-72 course.

Cards Selected for NCAA Championships
Written 04/28/05

INDIANAPOLIS -- The NCAA Division III Men's Golf Committee has announced the teams and individuals selected to participate in the 2005 NCAA Division III Men's Golf Championships. 

The championships will be held May 9-12, at the Mission Inn Golf and Tennis Resort in Howey-in-the-Hills, Florida, and will be hosted by Oglethorpe University and the Central Florida Sports Commission. 

A total of 120 participants will compete at the 2005 championships. Three teams were selected from each of the six regions. The committee then selected five at-large teams nationally. Therefore, in addition to the first three teams selected in each region, there were also three at-large selections from the south region and two at-large selections from the central region. Five individuals were also selected to compete. 

Following are the teams and individuals selected for the 2005 championships: 

Northeast 
Teams:
1. Skidmore
2. New York University
3. Williams
Individuals:
None 

Mid-Atlantic 
Teams:
1. Allegheny
2. Rochester
3. Westminster (Pennsylvania)
Individuals:
Mike Stackus, St. John Fisher 

South 
Teams:
1. Methodist
2. Guilford
3. Oglethorpe
4. Greensboro
5. Emory
6. Huntingdon
Individuals:
Michael Lemmo, LaGrange 

Great Lakes 
Teams:
1. Otterbein
2. Franklin
3. DePauw
Individuals:
Craig Eckerle, Denison 

Central 
Teams:
1. St. John's (Minnesota)
2. Gustavus Adolphus
3. Central (Iowa)
4. Nebraska Wesleyan
5. Wisconsin-Eau Claire
Individuals
Pete Weber, Loras 

West
Teams:
1. Redlands
2. Texas Lutheran
3. Cal Lutheran
Individuals:
Dillon Gooch, Mary Hardin-Baylor 

In the 2004 championships, Gustavus Adolphus won the team title, shooting a 292 on the final day to finish with a 4-day total of 1,178 at the PGA of Southern California Golf Club at Oak Valley in Beaumont, California. Redlands finished twelve shots back with a four-day total of 1,190. Ohio Wesleyan’s Chad Poling shot a 6-under 282 to win the individual title by two shots over Luke Benoit of Gustavus Adolphus. 

Highlights of the NCAA Division III Men's Golf Championships will be shown on CBS at 5 p.m. Eastern time, Saturday, July 2. The CBS seasonal show will feature highlights of 17 different NCAA championships that took place during the spring. 

Miller Named OAC Player of the Week
Written by Ed Syguda 04/25/05

Andy Miller, for the fourth time this spring, earned Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) player-of-the-week honors in men’s golf, the conference office released today.

Miller, a sophomore from Xenia (Xenia High School), shot a 2-over-par 74 in poor weather conditions to finish first at the Ohio Wesleyan Strimer Memorial Invitational held last Saturday at Dornoch Golf Club in Delaware. Otterbein shot a 321 to finish in a tie with Franklin College for first place in the 15-team field.

Miller, who leads his teammates with a 73.4-stroke average, has earned medalist honors four times this spring.

Miller Named OAC Player of the Week
Written by Ed Syguda 04/18/05

Andy Miller, for the third time this spring, earned Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) player-of-the-week honors in men’s golf, the conference office released today.

Miller, a sophomore from Xenia (Xenia High School), shot a 1-over-par 145 (75-70) to finish first at The Nye Intercollegiate held Saturday and Sunday at the Wooster Country Club.

Miller, who leads his teammates with a 73.3-stroke average, also earned medalist honors at the Muskingum Invitational held March 25-26 and the Denison Invitational held April 9-10.

Miller Named OAC Player of the Week
Written by Ed Syguda 04/11/05

Andy Miller earned Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) player-of-the-week honors in men’s golf, the conference office released today.

Miller, a sophomore from Xenia (Xenia High School), shot a 1-under-par 141 (70-71) to finish in a first-place tie with Wittenberg’s Andy Bonar at the Denison Ted Barclay Spring Invitational held Saturday and Sunday at the Granville Golf Club in Granville. Miller took medalist honors by winning on the first playoff hole.

Miller, who leads his teammates with a 73.4-stroke average, also earned medalist honors at the Muskingum Invitational held March 25-26.

Cards Win Second Straight Tournament   
Written by Matt Cooperrider 04/11/05

The Cardinals carried on their strong play this spring at the Ted Barclay Invitational hosted by Denison at the Granville Golf Club last Saturday and Sunday.

Otterbein shot two rounds of 293 to win the tournament title. The Cards were led by red-hot sophomore Andy Miller, from Xenia, who won the title with a 1-under-par 141 (70-71). 

This marks the second consecutive week where Miller has claimed the top spot. Miller overcame late round bogies with a birdie on the final hole that put him in a tie for first place. Miller parred the first playoff hole to earn medalist honors.

Matt Cooperrider, a junior from Thornville (Sheridan High School), tied the tournament low round record of 68, finished fourth with a 144 (76-68).

Rounding out the top five were Wes Stafford, a junior from Willoughy (South), 10th with a 149 (72-77); Doug Christopher, a senior from Worthington (Worthington Kilbourne), 26th with a 152 (75-77); and Matt Collins, a sophomore from Columbus (Worthington Kilbourne)(76-77 ), 32nd with a 153 (76-77).

The Cardinals are back in action this Friday and Saturday at Wooster to defend last year’s spring crown. With only two tournaments left before the OAC Championships, the Cards are sure to be swinging into top form.

Cards Set Records at Muskingum   
Written by Matt Cooperrider 04/04/05

The Otterbein Cardinals, fresh off their recent trip to Georgia, set a new all-time tournament record last Saturday at soggy Eaglesticks Golf Club near Zanesville, Ohio.

The squad fired a school-record 278 in the final round to win the Muskingum Invitational with a 36-hole 569 (291-278), five strokes ahead of Ohio Wesleyan, who finished second with a 574 (287-287).

The Cardinals were led by sophomore Andy Miller, who shot a tournament record 5-under-par 135 (67-68) for medalist honors. Rounding out the top five for Otterbein were Matt Cooperrider, 140 (70-70), Zach Sebert 148 (78-70), Patrick Gaul, 149 (76-73), and Wes Stafford, 149 (79-70).

“I was extremely proud of our program from top to bottom,” said third-year head coach Matt Smith about his team’s success at Muskingum. “Shooting a record 278 on the last day proves what our guys are capable of. Our hard work is paying off and everyone in our program is excited and looking forward to continued success.”

In the first tournament of the spring season, Otterbein placed seventh out of 24 teams at the Golden Isles Invitational held March 18-20 at the Jekyll Island Oleander Golf Course in Georgia. The tournament brought together many of the top college teams in NCAA Division III. Miller led the team with a  2-over-par 218 and was followed by Cooperrider, with a 222 (75-75-72), Patrick Gaul, 229 (77-75-77), Wes Stafford, 237 (74-83-80), and Matt Collins, 241 (82-83-76).

“For the first tournament of the year, I was impressed with our seventh-place finish,” said Miller, who was named to the all-tournament team. “It was only the second time we have played on grass in four months. Overall, we finished a lot better than last year and I am really excited about the rest of the season.”

The Cardinals are back on the links April 9-10, competing in the Denison Invitational at the Granville Golf Course.

Miller Named OAC Player of the Week
Written by Ed Syguda 03/28/05

Andy Miller earned Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) player-of-the-week honors in men’s golf, the conference office released today.

Miller, a sophomore from Xenia (Xenia High School), shot a 5-under-par 135 to take medalist honors at the 36-hole Muskingum Invitational held last Friday and Saturday at Eaglesticks Golf Club in Zanesville.

Otterbein won the 16-team invitational by five strokes with a two-round 569. Ohio Wesleyan finished second with a 574.

Cards Open Spring at Jekyll Island   
Written by Matt Cooperrider 03/15/05

The Otterbein men’s golf team is coming off one of its best fall schedules in recent years, and will look to keep the ball rolling this spring. 

The Cardinals won three tournaments last fall and finished second at the Powerade Collegiate Tournament.  Otterbein earned a fourth-place finish at the NCAA fall preview.  The fall success seemed to be a carryover from last spring when Otterbein finished the season with five first-place finishes and earned a trip to the NCAA Tournament in Redlands, CA.  

“We have established our goals for our program and those goals are as high as they have ever been,” said third-year head coach Matt Smith.  “I am confident in saying that every player is improving rapidly and are on the same page as everyone else.”

Otterbein lost just one scorer from last year’s squad that captured the Cardinals seventh-straight OAC Tournament championship.  Heading the list of returnees will be sophomore Andy Miller, who was named the NCAA’s “freshman of the year” in 2004, along with junior Matt Cooperrider, who earned medalist honors at Otterbein’s 2004 Fall Classic.  Also returning are senior Doug Christopher, along with juniors Wes Stafford and Patrick Gaul. 

The Cardinals will open their spring schedule March 18-20 at the Golden Isles Invitational in Jekyll Island, GA.

Cards Gear Up for NCAA Preview
Written by Matt Cooperrider 10/18/04

The Otterbein men’s golf team heads to Orlando, Fla. Thursday to try and cap off its impressive play and compete for the NCAA Preview held at Mission Inn Resort at Howey in the Hills. While in Orlando, the team will compete at the site of the 2005 NCAA Championships held next spring.

The Cardinals have compiled an impressive record this fall season, winning all but one tournament. The Cardinals have climbed to 7th place in the NCAA Division III poll by placing first in the first three tournaments of the fall season and finishing second behind Malone College at the Powerade Intercollegiate held Oct. 8-9.

The tournament gets underway this Saturday with 36 holes, followed by 18 on Sunday to wrap up the tournament.

Cards Compete in the Powerade Tournament
Written by Matt Cooperrider 10/07/04

The Otterbein men’s team will compete in the Powerade Intercollegiate Golf Tournament this Friday and Saturday at River Greens Golf Course in Coshocton, Ohio.

The Cardinals are coming of a 30-stroke win in the Otterbein Fall Classic held Monday at Rattlesnake Ridge. That marks three straight victories for the  team. 

Head coach Matt Smith will send five of his hottest golfers to contend for the 25-team invitational crown.  Otterbein is only one of three NCAA Division III teams invited to play this weekend. The field is made up of mostly NCAA Division II schools from up and down the East Coast

Otterbein tees off early Friday morning, playing 27 holes, followed by another 27 holes on Saturday.

Otterbein Hosts Fall Classic
Written by Matt Cooperrider 10/03/04

Otterbein will host its annual 36-hole fall golf classic this Monday at Rattlesnake Ridge Golf Club, in Sunbury, Ohio.

The Cardinals are looking to win their third straight tournament this fall season. Denison, Ohio Wesleyan and Muskingum are in the field as well. Play starts at 9 a.m. followed by an afternoon round.

The men’s team started out the season with two impressive first-place finishes at the Denison Fall Classic and Ohio Dominican Collegiate Classic.

The Cardinals shot rounds of 303 and 301 to take top honors over the field of nine teams competing at the Ohio Dominican Classic held last Friday and Saturday at Cumberland Trail. Taking medalist honors was Matt Cooperrider, who fired a 146 (72-74).

At Denison, Wes Stafford and Matt Cooperrider led the way for the Cardinals, both shooting 148 to finish in a tie for fifth place. Andy Miller finished in a tie for 10th with a 149.

Miller Named Freshman of the Year
Written by Ed Syguda 05/17/04

Andy Miller, a freshman from Xenia, was selected to receive The Phil Mickelson Award, given annually to the top freshman player in NCAA Division III, the Golf Coaches Association of America released Friday.

Miller finished in a tie for 28th at the NCAA tournament held May 10-13 at the PGA of Southern California Golf Club of Oak Valley. He shot a four-round 302, including the low round of the day, a four-under-par 68, in round three. Otterbein, as a team, finished 16th with a 1240 (311-303-301-325).

Cards Win 7th Straight OAC Title
Written by Ed Syguda 04/30/04

Otterbein won its seventh straight Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) title in men's golf, besting runner-up Baldwin-Wallace by 38 strokes Friday at Rattlesnake Ridge Golf Club in Sunbury.

Freshman Andy Miller, from Xenia, shot a two-under-par 70 in today’s final round to take medalist honors. Otterbein head coach Matt Smith was selected “OAC Men’s Golf Coach of the Year.”

Otterbein shot a two-round 610 (306-304). Baldwin-Wallace finished second with a 648 (325-323), and was followed by Muskingum (654), Capital (666), John Carroll (666), Mount Union (670), Ohio Northern (678), Wilmington (687) and Heidelberg (691).

Otterbein individual finishes were:

1. Andy Miller, freshman, Xenia, 149 (79-70)
2. Frank Rihtar, senior, Willoughby (Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin), 151 (76-75)
4. Matt Cooperrider, sophomore, Thornville (Sheridan High School), 154 (72-82)
8. Doug Christopher, junior, Worthington (Kilbourne High School), 160 (79-81)
11. Wes Stafford, sophomore, Willoughby (South High School), 162 (84-78)

Miller, Rihtar, Cooperrider and Christopher each earned All-OAC honors by finishing in the top ten.

The Cardinals, one of 23 teams selected, will compete in the 2004 NCAA Division III Men’s Golf Championships, which will be held May 10-13 at the PGA of Southern California Golf Club of Oak Valley in Calimesa, California. The University of Redlands will serve as host.

Cards Heading to NCAA Championships
Written by Ed Syguda 04/29/04

Otterbein, one of 23 teams selected, will compete for the 2004 NCAA Division III title in men’s golf, the NCAA released today.

The Cardinals, along with Ohio Wesleyan and Denison, will represent the Great Lakes Region at the national championships, which will be held May 10-13, at the PGA of Southern California Golf Club of Oak Valley in Calimesa, California. The University of Redlands will serve as host.

Otterbein has competed in 10 of the last 11 NCAA championships, finishing second twice.

The Cardinals, under second-year head coach Matt Smith, have been on a roll, compiling four wins and two seconds over seven tournaments this spring.

The team sits first with a 19-stroke lead over Baldwin-Wallace after round one of the Ohio Athletic Conference Championship played today at the Rattlesnake Ridge Golf Club in Sunbury.

Otterbein Hosts OAC Championship
Written by Ed Syguda 04/28/04

The first round of the 36-hole Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) Men’s Golf Championship gets underway Thursday at the Rattlesnake Ridge Golf Club in Sunbury.

Baldwin-Wallace, Muskingum and Otterbein begin at 9 a.m. Thursday. Ohio Northern, John Carroll and Mount Union follow at 9:50 a.m. The last three teams of Capital, Wilmington and Heidelberg begin at 10:40 a.m.

Otterbein, defending OAC champion, heads into the tournament on a roll, compiling four wins and two seconds over its last six tournaments this spring.

Playing for Otterbein will be:

           1. Matt Cooperrider, sophomore, Thornville (Sheridan High School)

           2. Andy Miller, freshman, Xenia

           3. Doug Christopher, junior, Worthington (Kilbourne High School)

           4. Wes Stafford, sophomore, Willoughby (South High School)

           5. Frank Rihtar, senior, Willoughby (Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin)

Friday’s second round is scheduled to begin at 8 a.m. at Rattlesnake. The top three teams will begin play at 9:40 a.m.

OAC Names Cooperrider Player of the Week
Written by Ed Syguda 04/26/04

Matt Cooperrider, a sophomore from Thornville (Sheridan High School), was named Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) player of the week in men’s golf, the league office released today.

Cooperrider helped lead Otterbein to a first-place finish in the Transylvania Classic and a second-place finish in the Ohio Wesleyan Strimer Invitational.

He fired a 3-under 69 to win medalist honors at the Transylvania Classic, which was held last Tuesday at Kearney Hill in Lexington, Ky. He shot rounds of 77 and 82 to finish in a tie for 36th place at the Strimer Invitational, which was held Saturday and Sunday at Dornoch and Oakhaven in Delaware.

Miller Earns OAC Player of the Week Honors
Written by Ed Syguda 03/29/04

Andy Miller, a freshman from Xenia, was named Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) co-player of the week in men’s golf, the league office released today.

Miller shot back-to-back rounds of 71 to help lead his team to a first-place finish at the Muskingum Invitational held last Friday and Saturday at Eaglesticks in Zanesville. He finished in a tie for second place with Muskingum’s Dan Fisher, who shared player of the week honors with Miller.

Cardinals Win Fighting Muskie Fall Invite
Written by Justin Hamilton 9/20/03

The Otterbein Cardinals turned in an impressive showing at the 2003 Fighting Muskie Fall Invite in Cambridge as the squad posted a two-day total of 578 en route to the tournament title.

Otterbein won by 14 strokes over John Carroll who finished the tournament with a 592.  The Cardinals led by just three strokes heading into the final round.

Sophomore Matt Cooperrider (Thornville/Sheridan) won the overall title with a 142, while sophomore Wes Stafford (Willoughby/South) shot a 144, which was second overall.

Rounding out the Cardinal scores were senior Frank Rihtar (Willoughby/Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin) and freshman Andy Miller (Xenia/Xenia) who both finished fifth overall with two-day scores of 147.  Sophomore Patrick Gaul (Granville/Newark Catholic) placed 25th with a 155.

Ryan Dorff Named All-America a Third Time
(Written 5/20/03)

For the third time in his career, senior golfer Ryan Dorff, from Johnstown (Johnstown-Monroe High School), was selected All-America the Golf Coaches Association of America released today.

He was an honorable mention selection.

Ryan Dorff Finishes 31st at NCAA Championships
(Written by Scott Rex 5/15/03)

Senior Ryan Dorff (Johnstown/Johnstown-Monroe), finished tied for 31st at the 2003 NCAA Division III Men’s Golf Championships.

The four-day, 72-hole event was held at Dornoch Golf Club in Delaware.

Dorff’s four-day total of 300 (79-75-73-73) was 16 shots over par.

Dorff had finished 20th and 14th, respectively, at the national championships the past two seasons.

Janne Mommo of Averett University fired a three-under par 281 to take medalist honors in the 120-player field. Averett won the team title by five shots over runner-up Wesley College.

Dorff Enters NCAA's on an Emotional High
(Written by Scott Rex 5/8/03)

After leading Otterbein to a stunning Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) championship last week, senior Ryan Dorff (Johnstown/Johnstown-Monroe) is preparing for the 2003 NCAA Division III Men’s Golf Championships.

The four-day, 72-hole event begins Monday at Dornoch Golf Club in Delaware.

This year’s national championship will be a new experience for the two-time All-American, as he will be playing as an individual. The Cardinals, for the first time in 10 years, were not invited to the tournament as a team.

“From that side, it’s extremely disappointing,” Dorff said. “I’d rather be there with my team. With that said, it’s good to be going. And personally, I think I’m playing well, which is a plus. I’m fortunate that it’s in town so the guys can come with me and experience it.”

First-year head coach Matt Smith, himself a three-time All-American while at Otterbein, has high expectations for Dorff at the national championships.

“There’s no pressure on him or I. I think he’ll earn All-American status again,” Smith said. “He loves this golf course. If he plays the best golf of his life, he can win it all and be an NCAA champion.”

The way this season has played out, anything can happen next week.

“He’s coming off such an emotional month,” Smith said of Dorff. “Two weeks ago, he got a hole-in-one, which was the first one he’s ever had, the next week we win as a team at our invitational and he wins as an individual, and then we find out we’re not going to nationals as a team. It’s a real emotional time.”

The Cardinals learned they were not in the NCAA field just prior to teeing off in the first round of the OAC Championships. After falling behind by 14 shots on the first day, Otterbein used their perceived snub as motivation in the second round, rallying to win their sixth straight OAC title by two shots.

“We knew that was it,” Dorff said. “The weather conditions were tough, which was in our favor. That was our national championship. It was exciting. It was probably the most exciting round in my four years here. Just to see everyone playing with that kind of heart and emotion, it was exciting.”

“I’ve never been so proud of a group of individuals before. I’ve been hard on them to play with more heart, and boy did they,” Smith said.

Dorff enters the NCAA Championships on a roll. He has finished in the top three in the last four tournaments of this spring season, including taking medalist honors twice; and has shot rounds of two-over par or better in six of his past seven rounds.

Cards Win Sixth Straight OAC Title
(Written by Scott Rex 5/2/03)

Otterbein, under first-year head coach Matt Smith, won the 2003 Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) men’s golf championship Friday afternoon at Red Hawk Run Golf Club in Findlay Ohio.

This marks Otterbein’s sixth straight conference championship.

The Cardinals’ two-day, 36-hole total of 618 was two shots better than runner-up Muskingum.

Ryan Dorff, a senior from Johnstown (Johnstown-Monroe), tied for second overall with a 151 (77-74). He was just one shot back of medalist Steve Weir of Baldwin-Wallace.

Rounding out Otterbein’s top five were: Jon Stupansky, a senior from Foster City, CA (Lakewood, OH), fifth with a 154 (78-76); Matt Cooperrider, a freshman from Thorneville (Sheridan), seventh with a 157 (80-77); Wes Stafford, a freshman from Willoughby (South), tied for ninth with a 160 (83-77); and Ben Stewart, a freshman from Maineville (Kings), 29th with a 171 (79-92).

Dorff Selected to Compete at NCAA Championships
(Written by Scott Rex 5/1/03)

Ryan Dorff, a senior from Johnstown (Johnstown-Monroe High School), has been selected to participate in the 2003 NCAA Division III Men’s Golf Championships.

The tournament will be held May 12-15 at Dornoch Golf Club in Delaware. Ohio Wesleyan University will serve as host for the event.

Dorff is a two-time All-American, having finished 20th as a junior and 14th as a sophomore at the national championships. Otterbein finished 13th and fourth, respectively, as a team in 2002 and 2001.

This season, Dorff took medalist honors at the Capital Tournament and Otterbein Groseclose Memorial Invitational. He holds a 74.9 stroke average.

Dorff and his teammates are competing at the Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) Championships today and Friday. Dorff, a three-time all-conference selection, took medalist honors at the 2002 OAC Championships.

Cards Continue Play Against Strong Competition
(Written by Scott Rex 4/22/03)

Otterbein played four solid rounds of golf last week, finishing ninth at the nationally-prominent Emory Spring Invitational in Atlanta and second at the Wooster Invitational.

The Cardinals shot a two-day total of 620 to tie for ninth out of 18 teams at Emory, then fired a 630 at Wooster to finish second of 15 teams.

“The tournaments we’re playing are giving us national exposure and much-needed experience,” said first-year head coach Matt Smith. “I think we’re playing well, but we’re not scoring well. We’re hitting the ball well, our mindset is well, we’re just not scoring well. But I love our attitude and we’re working hard. I’ve never been a part of a team that is so close-knit and trying so hard.”

Senior Ryan Dorff (Johnstown/Johnstown-Monroe) led the Cardinals at Emory, carding a 152 to tie for 19th overall. At Wooster, freshman Ben Stewart (Mainville/Kings) shot a 155 to tie for third. It was the highest finish of his young career, and the first time he has carded Otterbein’s low score for a tournament.

“He’s such a great kid. I love his attitude,” Smith said of Stewart. “He has become one of our most consistent players. He’s the first to admit that the 78 he shot at Wooster should have been a 72 or 73.”

Otterbein has another big weekend coming up, traveling to the Ohio Wesleyan Invitational Saturday and Sunday, then hosting the Otterbein Groseclose Memorial Invitational Monday.

Stupansky Earns OAC Honors
(Written 4/7/03)

Jonathan Stupansky, a senior from Foster City, Calif. (Lakewood High School), was selected Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC) “player of the week” in men’s golf.

Coach Smith Learning His Squad
(Written by Scott Rex 4/1/03)

Otterbein opened the season with an 11th-place finish at the Golden Isles Invitational, in a field that featured 19 of the best teams in the country, and a fourth-place finish at the Muskingum Invitational.  One would think that would be enough to make first-year head coach Matt Smith, who has only one senior and plays three freshmen, smile.

“I didn’t feel we played that well,” Smith said.  “This week was a great measuring stick for us because we’re not playing our best golf, but we’re still competitive.

“This was my first opportunity to see the guys play,” Smith said.  “I got a great feel for the types of golfers they are.  It’s tough for the northern teams to play well against the southern teams.  As the weather improves, and we practice on specific areas, I know we are going to get better.”

At the Golden Isles Invite, Ryan Dorff(Johnstown/Johnstown-Monroe), the lone senior on the roster, led the Otterbein contingent with a three-day total of 230.  He tied for 36th place overall.  Freshman Matt Cooperrider (Thorneville/Sheridan) was four shots back of Dorff.

At Muskingum, the two switched spots.  Cooperrider’s two-day total of 149 was good for a tie for eighth overall.  Dorff finished five shots back, tied with freshman Ben Stewart for 17th.  Sophomore Doug Christopher (Worthington/Kilbourne), playing as an individual, actually carded Otterbein’s second-best score of the tournament.  Christopher fired a 150 to finish 11th overall.

Smith plans to send his B Team to Kenyon this weekend in order to give his golfers a few extra days to prepare for the trip to Emory (GA) April 13-15.

Matt Smith Named Head Coach
(Written by Ed Syguda 12/13/02)

Columbus native Matt Smith has been named head men’s golf coach at Otterbein College.

“With his past playing history, and technical knowledge,” said director of athletics Dick Reynolds, “Matt should be able to take this program even further than it is now.”

Smith, 27, serves as assistant golf professional at The Willows Golf Club in Groveport, Ohio.

“I am absolutely thrilled to be leading a program of this quality,” Smith said. “With my background and experience, I believe I can be a good teacher as well as a good coach.”

Smith, a 1999 graduate of Otterbein, has proven to be at the top of his game at every level.

He qualified and played in the 1999 U.S. Amateur, and in 2001, was the Southern Ohio Apprentice Player of the Year.

His collegiate career began at Ohio State where he played one season before transferring to Otterbein. Smith earned All-America honors three times and helped lead Otterbein to three top-four finishes in the NCAA Division III Tournament. His best finish, a four-round even-par 288, earned him first team All-America honors as his team finished second in the nation in 1998.

Golf Cards Finish 13th at the NCAA Championships
(Written 5/16/02)

WESTERVILLE, OHIO--The Otterbein men's golf team finished 13th at the NCAA Division III Men's Golf Championships.

The Cardinals, under 13th-year head coach David McLaughlin, shot a 326 (+42) today in the final round of the tournament at the par-71 Firethorn Golf Club in Lincoln, Neb.

This marks Otterbein's tenth-straight trip to the NCAA Tournament. The Cardinals have finished in the top four in six of the last eight years. Otterbein placed fourth in 2000 and 1999, finished second twice (1998 and 1995), and third once (1997).

Otterbein Golfers Final Results (72 holes)

Ryan Dorff, junior from Johnstown, OH tie 20 308 (78-80-78-72)

Tom Wirtz, freshman from Canton, OH tie 72 321 (78-81-76-86)

Nick Gardner, senior from Dublin, OH tie 100 330 (81-80-82-87)

Wes Harman, senior from Marysville, OH tie 31 311 (82-74-71-84)

Frank Rihtar, sophomore from Willoughby, OH tie 83 326 (82-89-71-84)

Top Ten Teams

1. Guilford, NC 1212 (300-311-301-300)

2. Greensboro, NC 1218 (312-305-313-288)

3. Methodist 1223 (308-296-306-313)

4. Wisc.-Eau Claire 1233 (295-317-303-318)

5. Gustavus Adolphus 1242 (319-315-302-306)

6. Nebraska Wesleyan 1244 (304-306-315-319)

7. Ohio Wesleyan 1245 (310-304-314-317)

8. St. John's, MN 1246 (311-316-306-313)

9. Wesley 1250 (306-321-308-315)

9. Central, IA 1250 (310-320-305-315)

9. Oglethorpe 1250 (313-310-306-321)

Round Three Delayed -- Otterbein to Finish in Morning

LINCOLN, NEB.--Passing storms delayed the start of third round action at the 2002 NCAA Division III Men's Golf Championships on Wednesday at Firethorn Golf Club. Then, after a pair of suspensions due to lightning, play resumed, but 12 teams will need Thursday morning to complete their third round.

A shotgun start at approximately 11 a.m. CST is now needed to finish the fourth round on Thursday, pending weather conditions. Showers are expected again overnight and into Thursday.

Among the top 11 teams that did finish Round 3, Methodist College remains ahead, but by a smaller margin. Methodist shot 306 Wednesday for a total of 910, while Guilford College moved back into second with a 301 for the day and 912 for the tournament.

The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire gained ground with a 303 score. The Blugolds are now third with a total of 915. Nebraska Wesleyan University dropped to fourth place with 315 strokes, 925 altogether, and Ohio Wesleyan University jumps up a spot to fifth with 928 after carding a 314 on Wednesday.

Muskingum College, which was tied for second, shot 329 on Wednesday to fall out of title contention. The 12 teams that were unable to finish their third round would need to shoot 300 or better to crack the top five heading into the fourth and final round.

Chris Noll of Wesley College reclaimed the individual lead with 74 strokes to put him at 217 for the tournament. Adam Lescalleet of Muskingum and Toni Karjalainen of Averett University are tied for second at 222 after carding scores of 82 and 74 respectively.

Golf Cards Tied for 16th at NCAA Championships

WESTERVILLE, OHIO--The Otterbein men's golf team dropped from a share of 15th into a share of 16th place after round two of the NCAA Division III Men's Golf Championships.

The Cardinals, under 13th-year head coach David McLaughlin, shot a 315 (+31) today after opening play with a first-round 319 at the 6,686-yard, par-71 Firethorn Golf Club in Lincoln, NE.

The 72-hole championships, hosted by Nebraska Wesleyan University, conclude Thursday.

This marks Otterbein's tenth-straight trip to the NCAA Tournament. The Cardinals have finished in the top four in six of the last seven years. Otterbein placed fourth in 2001, 2000 and 1999, finished second twice (1998 and 1995), and third once (1997).

Otterbein Golfers After Round Two (36 holes)

Ryan Dorff, junior from Johnstown, OH tie 52 158 (78-80)

Tom Wirtz, freshman from Canton, OH tie 61 159 (78-81)

Nick Gardner, senior from Dublin, OH tie 76 161 (81-80)

Wes Harman, senior from Marysville, OH tie 39 156 (82-74)

Frank Rihtar, sophomore from Willoughby, OH tie 113 171 (82-89)

Top Ten Teams

1. Methodist 604 (308-296)

2. Muskingum 610 (313-297)

    Nebraska Wesleyan 610 (304-306)

4. Guilford 611 (300-311)

5. Wisconsin-Eau Claire 612 (295-317)

6. Ohio Wesleyan 614 (310-304)

7. Averett 615 (315-300)

8. Greensboro College, (NC) 617 (312-305)

9. Oglethorpe 623 (313-310)

10. Allegheny 625 (319-306)