Despite a slow start to the year, the Irish wrapped up another solid season with a few top finishes as they battled back to enter the NCAA Championship on the right note.
The Irish were narrowly defeated in the Big East championships, missing out on a conference title by just one stroke, losing to Georgetown on the final hole of the tournament.
"Obviously a tough, tough finish down there at Innisbrook," Irish coach Jim Kubinski said. "They just did a great job. They fought so hard, showed so much heart and guts, and they just hung in there. I was really proud of the way we finished."
Although Notre Dame failed to take home the title, a much lower finish was expected following a dismal first round that saw the Irish fall to sixth. The squad entered the final round in fifth place, but managed to vault three teams for a strong finish.
The Irish also had some notable individual efforts at the conference tournament.
Sophomore Tom Usher carded a two-under par 69, tied for the lowest score of the day, while sophomore Max Scodro was tied for first for the outright individual title through the first 54 holes.
The seniors also put together a strong showing at the tournament, held at the Innisbrook Resort and Golf Club. Despite some early struggles in the first two rounds, senior Josh Sandman shot an even par 71 on the final day of action.
"Obviously kids come to Notre Dame for the education, the experience, but they come to play for championships," Irish coach Jim Kubinski said.
Notre Dame's most rewarding victory of the year came in the fall season at the Fighting Irish Gridiron Golf Classic. The Irish claimed their first regular season title since the 2004-2005 season, and Sandman took home the first individual title of his career.
The Irish also posted a number of other first-place finishes, including the Bandon Dunes Championship and the Battle at the Warren. Notre Dame also finished second in The Match Play, as the Irish constantly put themselves in position to win big tournaments.
Notre Dame looks to continue playing strong golf as they participate in the NCAA Regional on May 20 at the Warren Golf Course. Despite competing against tough competition from around the nation, the Irish look to use the home-course to their advantage.
