The men’s golf team won its 23rd Mid-American Conference championship Saturday in Sylvania, Ohio by a 20 stroke difference. Head coach Herb Page was awarded with MAC coach of the year.

“This was by far our best tournament all year,” Page said. “We started off strong and didn’t let the windy conditions get in our way. All five players were key in this weekend’s win.”

Page said the team played smart and showed the other teams how Kent State plays golf and proved to be champions through the course of the tournament. This championship win gives Kent State a lead in most golf titles.

Sophomore Ian Holt remained consistent throughout the tournament tying for second place and shooting three over par. Junior Josh Whalen, sophomore Chase Johnson and freshman Bjarki Petursson pulled through with birdies when the team’s lead shortened.

“They all had to work for it this weekend,” Page said. “All the guys this weekend played a huge part in this championship especially Petursson with his outstanding performance. He showed us he’s got what it takes to win championships.”

Page said the best thing to see out of his players are “weekly improvements they make and they show up to championship tournaments like they did and present their championship character.”

The Golden Flashes are back in the top 50 golf programs in the nation coming in at 46. They received a regionals bid and will find out Thursday, May 5 where it will be held. The regionals tournament begins Monday May 16 and ends Wednesday May 18.

“This, personally, was a much needed weekend for the team,” Page said. “Because of our finish last year. There’s always going to be that one year where you recognize what you have to do next year and we brought it back this year.”

Eric is a sports reporter for The Kent Stater. Contact him at [email protected].