The Illinois Springfield men's golf team placed fifth at the Las Vegas Warrior Invitational, hosted by Winona State University at The Legacy Golf Club. The two-day event was played Wednesday and Thursday, with teams completing the first round and part of round two on Wednesday before finishing the tournament Thursday with the remainder of round two and the final round.

Illinois Springfield improved its score in each of the final two rounds, finishing with a three-round total of 903 (309-298-296). The Prairie Stars closed within nine strokes of conference opponent Quincy, which finished fourth at 894.

Individually, Julien Babineau led the Prairie Stars with a 12th-place finish after carding rounds of 77, 74, and 70 for a 221. His final-round 70 was the lowest round by a Prairie Star during the tournament.

Jake Baldin finished tied for 14th at 224 (76-76-72), while Daniel Edwards tied for 17th with a 225 (75-73-77). Vilgot Arleback placed 31st with a total of 234 (81-75-78) and Sacha Lamraski followed in 34th at 235 (82-76-77). Competing as an individual, Charles Prins tied for 37th with a 240 (79-82-79).

As a team, Illinois Springfield ranked third in par-3 scoring with a 3.18 average and finished second in the field with 162 pars. The Prairie Stars also recorded two eagles, coming from Baldin and Arleback.

"It's always an adjustment going from indoor practice to real grass this time of year, but the group handled it well and really built some momentum in the third round to secure a top-five finish," said head coach Josh Edison. "Julien had a great day, finishing in the red, and Jake battled all day to post an even-par round. Danny Edwards also had a bit of a breakout performance for us, which was great to see. I'm excited about the direction we're heading and the progress this team is making. Good things are coming for UIS golf this spring."

Up Next
Illinois Springfield returns to action March 23-24 when it hosts the Dan Salisbury Memorial Collegiate Invitational at Red Tail Run Golf Course in Decatur.