FRESHMEN SHINE FOR RAIDERS GOLF AT WALTERS STATE INVITATIONAL

MORRISTOWN, Tenn. — Roane State men's golf battled one of the most challenging courses on its fall schedule with composure and consistency at the Walters State Invitational, held Oct. 6–7 at Morristown Country Club.

Head coach Chris Griffin said the event, known for its "undulating, fast bent grass greens," tested every part of his team's game but also showcased the Raiders' mental focus and resilience.

"This is always one of the toughest venues we play," Griffin said. "Morristown Country Club is known for the green structure. It always poses a challenge for any level golfer, especially in college golf. But the guys played hard and stayed mentally locked in. We had eight scores in the 70s — four players each day — which is our best outing at Morristown in the eight years we've been playing it."

Leading the way were freshmen Andersen House, Reggie Phelps, Collin Keino, and Lennon Hill, each carding rounds in the 70s to anchor Roane State's best team finish at Morristown in program history.

"Andersen, Reggie, Collin, and Lennon all contributed to those rounds," Griffin said. "They didn't let the course beat them. Reggie and Andersen scored the best by a couple of shots, but all four of them showed great composure. It's impressive to see freshmen step into college golf and handle a course like that."

The team also featured Max McClure, another freshman who gained valuable experience in the lineup, and Tripp Hall, a sophomore who competed as an individual while managing a minor back issue.

"We played Tripp as an individual to take the pressure off in case his back flared up," Griffin explained. "He's progressing well, and we're being patient so he can get back to full strength."

Griffin credited the team's preparation and discipline for the strong performance, emphasizing how his players are adapting to the demands of a busy October schedule.

"We've got three tournaments in about a 15-day stretch, so it's a grind," he said. "But we started early this fall knowing this stretch was coming. The guys love to compete, and they've done a great job sticking to their routines — structured practices, pre-tournament prep — and we can see the progress."

Next up for the Raiders is a trip to Tusculum University for a tournament featuring several four-year programs, followed by their home event, the Atomic City Classic in Oak Ridge.

"There are only two JUCO teams in the field at Tusculum," Griffin said. "It's a great opportunity for our guys to show what they can do in front of four-year coaches. We're comparable to those programs, and this group has a chance to make a strong statement."

The Raiders' steady improvement has Griffin optimistic about the rest of the fall season. Roane State has three tournaments in the next four weeks, beginning with the Bob Dibble Invitational at Tusculum University.