Carbondale Reporter

Jaeseung Na set a new 18-hole record for Southern Illinois University during the Mark Simpson Invitational in Erie, Colorado, leading the team to break additional program records for lowest scores over 18, 36, and 54 holes. The Salukis began the tournament with a strong performance, shooting 19 under par (269) in the first round and finishing second at that stage. Na's bogey-free round of 64 tied the school's best single-round score.

"A bogey-free 64 is great playing, no matter where you are teeing it up," said Head Coach Justin Fetcho. "Jae is a very talented player and once he gets his mental process kicking on all cylinders for 54 holes, you are going to see some really good stuff time and time again from him."

Despite falling back in subsequent rounds, Southern Illinois finished fourth overall but maintained consistent play to set or tie school records for total scores over two and three rounds.

"We found a way to put ourselves in contention again with 18 holes to play, which is always what you want as a competitor," Fetcho said. "This group is showing the depth we have physically, but they are also showing that mentally they are willing to learn and be coachable. They have made some big strides since day one of arriving on campus, and it is showing each time we tee it up. Golf is unique in that our competition field is never the same like a basketball court or a baseball field. We have to be able to adapt to different conditions and styles of courses. I am proud that we have seen three different styles of golf courses this year, and we have been able to compete hard on each and every one of those different styles."

Anthony De Schutter contributed significantly in the final round by posting a score of 68 on day two, ranking fifth among all players.

"Anthony is that guy you love having on your team as you gear up for the final round with a chance to win," Fetcho said. "He proved again this week that he is a big-time performer on the final day. He keeps getting better and better, and I know he will keep delivering for this team in those clutch moments."

The Salukis' results included Anthony De Schutter tying for 12th place at eight under par; Michael Mikus tying for 14th at seven under; Blake Saffell tying for 27th at five under; Jaeseung Na tying for 35th at four under; and Ben Keil tying for 52nd at one under.

Fetcho added: "If we can keep learning and growing, I truly believe we will see some special things from these guys."

Southern Illinois will continue its fall season at the Purdue Fall Invitational on October 13.

For updates about Southern Illinois men's golf, fans can follow their social media accounts on X (@SIU_MGolf), Facebook (@Saluki Men's Golf), and Instagram (@siu_mgolf).