The UConn Men’s Golf Team is traveling to Penn State to compete in the last regular season invitational of the spring season.
The Rutherford Invitational is held at the Penn State Blue Course. At this match last year, UConn placed eighth out of 12 teams shooting 18 over par as a team. Using that experience, seniors Jimmy Paradise and Tommy Dallahan look to improve on their finish with them leading the way.
The Penn State Blue Course poses a challenge for all teams who will tee off this Saturday. The host site of previous Big Ten Championships, the front nine offers a par 36, 3696-yard play for the competitors.
Hole No. 5 of the front nine is one to look out for. From the New Nittany tees, it’s a 550-yard shot with trees and bunkers scattered around the fairway and green. With a straight shot, the Huskies should handle staying out of trouble.
Wrapping up the front nine is another par five opportunity. This time, it’s a 511-yard shot to the center of the green. The fairway curves sharply to the left, so some set-up shots and strategy will have to be utilized to shoot under par on this hole.
The back nine is similar to the front: par 36 for a total of 3518 yards from the New Nittany tees. A variety of bunkers and water hazards will make even the par three holes tricky.
Hole No. 14 is one the Huskies should be careful of. This par three 168-yard shot has a water hazard just yards off the edge of the green. A short shot can turn into a disaster hole quickly if not played correctly.
To end the course, hole No. 18 is a par five 487-yard shot with three significant bunkers in front of the green. Also, just off the tee box lies water hazards to the left and right. After 18 holes, the Huskies will have to stay sharp and finish strong to avoid any extra strokes.
The Huskies have had a handful of wins and top-ten performances this season and they head to Penn State to continue building momentum.
Up next for the Huskies will be the coveted Big East Championships in Hardeeville, SC at the Riverton Pointe Golf and Country Club. The event will begin on April 27 and go through April 29. Information for the match can be found at uconnhuskies.com.