Men’s Golf Returns to Competition at NSU Classic
TULSA, Okla. – The East Central University men's golf team made its official return to competition for the first time since 2016, competing as a newly reinstated program at the NSU Classic on Sept. 15–16. Held at Page Belcher Golf Course in Tulsa, the event featured a competitive NCAA Division II field, giving ECU valuable early-season experience as it works to reestablish the program.
Leading the way for ECU was
Pablo Illescas, who posted a top-50 finish, tying for 45th with a three-round total of +3 (213). Illescas opened strong with a 2-under 69 in the first round, followed by rounds of 74 (+3) and 72 (+2).
Gabriel Jones tied for 55th at +5 (215), turning in three consistent rounds of 73 (+2), 73 (+2), and 72 (+1).
Gage Tennyson finished tied for 88th at +12 (222). After shooting 78 (+7) in the first round, he bounced back with rounds of 75 (+4) and 71 (+1).
Aidan Morrison tied for 92nd at +14 (224), posting rounds of 72 (+1), 78 (+7), and 74 (+3). His opening round was a highlight, featuring ECU's first eagle of the season, holing out from the fairway on hole three, a par 4.
Rhett Gray rounded out the ECU lineup, finishing tied for 98th with a total score of +17 (227). He posted rounds of 78 (+7), 77 (+6), and closed with his best effort 72 (+1).
The ECU men's golf team will look to build on its first outing when the team returns to action at the Battle for the Belt, hosted by Henderson State University, on Sept. 29–30 in Hot Springs.
