April 8, 2012
TAMPA, Fla. - The No. 2 Auburn men's golf team finished third at the Gary Koch Invitational shooting an even-288 on Sunday for a 4-over total at the Old Memorial Golf Club in Tampa, Fla., marking its eighth top-3 of the season.
"We played well today in spurts," head coach Nick Clinard said. "We just need to clean it up, and control our mind better. I was really proud of Dominic (Bozzelli) for his outstanding round, and for Niclas (Carlsson) for battling back after a very tough start."
Freshman Blake Soni, who was playing as an individual, finished tied for seventh at 1-under in his first ever tournament for Auburn. Senior Will McCurdy finished tied for 12th at 1-over after shooting an even-72 on Sunday, for his fifth top-20 finish of the season.
"Blake had a great tournament as an individual, and proved he is ready to compete for championships at Auburn," Clinard continued. "I am extremely proud of him and happy for him."
After starting the day tied for 42nd, junior Dominic Bozzelli fired a 4-under 68 to finish tied for 15th. The Pittsford, N.Y., native eagled on No. 9 before carding birdies on 14 and 16. Junior Blayne Barber placed tied for 23rd after shooting a 3-over 75, while Niclas Carlsson finished tied for 27th at 5-over. Junior Michael Hebert finished tied for 32nd at 7-over.
The Tigers will return to action on April 20-22 for the SEC Championship in Sea Island, Ga.