Yellowjackets Post Strong Second-Place Finish at Clarke Spring Invite

GALENA, Ill. — The Graceland University men's golf team delivered a consistent two-round performance to finish second overall with a 36-hole total of 653 (+77) at the Clarke Spring Invite, held April 6-7 at Eagle Ridge Resort (North Course).

Competing on a par-72, 6,875-yard layout, the Yellowjackets emphasized tempo control, sequencing and repeatable swing patterns across both rounds, posting scores of 328 (+40) in Round 1 and 325 (+37) in Round 2. The improvement in round-to-round scoring reflected tighter dispersion off the tee and more efficient transition into approach play.

Graceland finished just behind tournament champion Dubuque (B), which posted a 645 (+69), while Clarke (A) placed third at 657 (+81). The Yellowjackets maintained position through consistent rhythm in their ball-striking and minimized high-variance holes, allowing for stable scoring distribution across the lineup.

Individually, Jonathan Paramananthan led Graceland with a 158 (+14), earning a tie for second place and demonstrating controlled tempo and alignment throughout both rounds. His round-to-round progression (80-78) highlighted improved sequencing and timing through impact.

Colton Dennis added a 163 (+19) to finish tied for ninth, while Clayton Wichman followed with a 164 (+20), placing tied for 12th. Both players maintained consistent rhythm and footwork through their approach sequences, contributing to the team's overall scoring balance.

Drew Jones recorded a 171 (+27), and Trevor Shelton finished at 175 (+31), as the Yellowjackets completed the tournament with five counting scores that reflected steady execution across both days.

"We saw improved sequencing and better tempo throughout the second round, which helped stabilize our scoring," said head coach Kevin Brunner. "Our group is continuing to develop consistency in their movement patterns and course management, and that showed in how we finished the event."

The Clarke Spring Invite featured a competitive NAIA field, with multiple teams posting tightly grouped totals. Graceland's ability to sustain rhythm and limit scoring volatility positioned the Yellowjackets near the top of the leaderboard entering the final round and allowed them to secure a strong finish.

The Yellowjackets will return to action April 13-14 at 8:00 a.m. CDT at the Evangel University Freemont Hills Classic, held at Freemont Hills Golf Course in Springfield, Missouri, where they will look to build on their sequencing, tempo control and scoring efficiency. For more information on Graceland men's golf and all Yellowjacket athletics, visit GUjackets.com.