SCOTTSBORO, Ala. – NIACC sophomore golfers Dalton Olson and Jacob Urdahl open play at the NJCAA Division II national golf meet on Tuesday.
The two former Newman Catholic standouts qualified for the national meet, which is being held on the Goose Pond Colony golf course, at the Region XI meet in Cedar Rapids on May 5-6.
“This was one of the worst spring seasons on record as far as getting out and having time to work on their game,” NIACC coach Chris Frenz said. “Yet Dalton Olson and Jacob Urdahl did an outstanding job of getting themselves ready to compete in the regional tournament.”
Urdahl shot a 78-73 – 151 and placed fifth overall at regionals. Olson shot a 72-80 – 152 and was third among the individual qualifiers.
The top five individuals minus regional team champion Kirkwood qualified for the national tournament.
“As sophomores, they knew it that it took two solid days to get to the national tournament,” Frenz said. “Dalton’s opening round of 72 was awesome. I can’t say enough about how they were mentally ready to go for the regional.”
Frenz said both golfers have goals of becoming All-Americans, which requires placing in the top 15.
“It’s a lofty goal,” the coach said, “but one that if they play like they are capable of for four days of championship level golf, they have a good chance.
“It’s difficult sometimes to keep it together for four days, but I have to think these guys are up for the challenge.”
The two sophomores will play on the Goose Pond, which sits along the Tennessee River.
“It’s a beautiful setting,” Frenz said. “I’m glad there isn’t a desert for these guys.
“I’m tired of seeing sand, rocks, cactus, geckos and prairie dogs.”
