West Central Reporter

Western Illinois Men's Golf Team Heads to SIUE Dolenc Invitational

The Western Illinois Men's Golf team is set to begin their season at the SIUE Dolenc Invitational on Monday, September 9, and Tuesday, September 10. This tournament marks the first of four events for the team this fall.

Returning Players

Western Illinois returns five players from last year's squad. Luke Lofgren and Mateo Rascon are among the notable returners. Lofgren achieved a top-three finish last season at the WIU Intercollegiate, while Rascon secured second place at the Stampede at the Creek. Another key player, Baptiste Labeyrie, was named OVC Player of the Week last spring for his performance with the Leathernecks. Nathan Tillman and Bayden Hubacher also return for their junior seasons. Hubacher participated in nine events last season with one top-15 finish, and Tillman played in seven events with one top-15 finish.

New Additions

Owen Howe joins WIU from Johnston, Iowa. Howe earned recognition as Iowa Player of the Year at the 4A level and concluded his high school career with an individual state championship at Otter Creek. He also contributed to his team's state title win in 2022.

Teagen Hull comes to WIU from Eldon, Missouri. Hull was a three-time state qualifier and received All-State honors twice in three years.

Tournament Details

The SIUE Dolenc Invitational will be held at Gateway National Golf Links in Madison, Illinois. The course is a par 71 that spans 7,178 yards. The tournament consists of three rounds: two on Monday and one on Tuesday.

Competing Teams

Teams competing include Western Illinois, SIUE, Bellarmine, Bradley, Drake, Eastern Illinois, Green Bay, Lindenwood, Missouri State, South Dakota, Southern Illinois, Tennessee Tech, Northern Iowa, Southern Indiana Utah State UT Martin Weber State Wichita State.