News Summary
The University of North Florida’s men’s golf team ended their victory drought by winning their first team title at the World Golf Village Collegiate. With a total score of 1-over 570, they triumphed over competitors, finishing 25 shots ahead of Butler. Senior Brett Schell’s impressive performance included a stunning second-round score of 66, marking his first individual victory. Other standout performances came from Jason Duff and Adam Vermut, contributing to a significant triumph for the UNF team. Looking ahead, they’re set to compete at The Hayt in March.
UNF Men’s Golf Team Breaks Victory Drought at World Golf Village!
Guess what, golf fans? The University of North Florida men’s golf team is back at the top! After a bit of a dry spell since the 2022-23 season, they clinched their first team title at the popular World Golf Village Collegiate, hosted at the stunning King & Bear course. Talk about making a statement!
The Championship Journey
With a sparkling team score of 1-over 570, UNF didn’t just win; they dominated the competition by finishing a whopping 25 shots ahead of Butler. Now that’s what you call a triumph!
Star Performers Shine Bright
Leading the pack was senior star Brett Schell, who graduated from Bartram Trail. His second-round delight included a mind-blowing 66, crowning him with his very first career individual victory, and an impressive score of 8-under 136. Kudos, Brett!
Not to be outdone, Jason Duff, a talented graduate of Menendez, held strong by opening with a round of 70 and finishing tied for second overall with a score of 1-under 143. Both Brett and Jason have previously been recognized as Florida Times-Union high school Players of the Year, so their wins come as no surprise!
More Great Performances
Let’s not forget about junior Adam Vermut, a Wolfson graduate, who played as an individual and finished fourth with a score of 145. And then there was sophomore Filippo Serra, who clocked in at solo third with a score of 144. Talk about teamwork and individual prowess!
While Eastern Kentucky, the host team, settled for eighth place, Flagler College struggled to find its rhythm, finishing in 14th. Rocco Randazzo represented well from Flagler, tying for sixth with a score of 146.
What’s Next for UNF?
For fans eager for more action, the UNF crew is gearing up for their next challenge at The Hayt from March 8-10 at Sawgrass Country Club. It seems the momentum is on their side, and we love to see it!
Local Stars Making Waves
In other exciting news on the local circuit, Bolles senior and incoming UNF freshman Luke Balaskiewicz has a fresh victory under his belt! He showcased his skills at the Stone Creek Open, winning with an extraordinary score of 11-under 133. His rounds of 67 and 66 included an eagle on the par-5 16th both days, leaving us all in awe.
In the second round, Luke was on fire, birdying three of his first six holes and shooting 4-under 32 on the front nine. This win marks Balaskiewicz’s second victory in the Florida Junior Tour, and we can expect bright things ahead!
FJT Highlights
Not far behind, Ambrose Kinnare of St. Augustine again showcased his talents, finishing solo second in a recent FJT event, falling in a playoff to Tyler Creavy with a playoff score of 1-over 145. Ambrose has been a force this season, securing three top-10 finishes. Other notable local finishers included Brady Dougan of Jacksonville tying for seventh at 149, and Rafael DeCarvalho who tied for 10th with 151.
Girls Division Highlights
The girls’ division saw Lily Wachter of St. Augustine tying for sixth with a score of 152, and Lily Chiang from Jacksonville tying for 10th with 157. What a show from the ladies!
Remembering Accomplishments Beyond the Greens
On a side note, Flagler College junior Stella Jelinek has been making waves too! She earned the Peach Belt Conference’s Women’s Golfer of the Week award with a score of 1-under 215 at the World Golf Invitational. With a stroke average of 72.06, she ranks sixth nationally among NCAA Division II players. Kudos to her!
Golf lovers, this is just the beginning! Keep your eyes peeled for all the upcoming events, including the exciting Hack a Tee for HD tournament by the Florida Chapter of the Huntington’s Disease Society of America, set for March 21. We can’t wait to see what unfolds on the greens!
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Additional Resources
- UNF Ospreys: Schell Earns ASUN Golfer of the Week
- Jacksonville Sports: Brett Schell’s Achievement
- UNF Ospreys: Victories at World Golf Village Classic
- Wikipedia: College Golf
- Roar Lions: Men’s Basketball Against UNF
