Men’s Golf: Squire Creek Season Opener

jax State Gamecocks Launch 2025-26 Golf season at Argent Financial Classic

The Jax State Gamecocks men’s golf team begins its 2025-26 season this Sunday at the Argent Financial Classic, hosted at Squire Creek in Choudrant, Louisiana. This marks the eighth appearance for Jax State in the prestigious 22-year-old tournament.

The Gamecocks are aiming to build on a history of success at the event, having secured a third-place finish in 2010 and twice achieving a team score of four-under par.This year’s competition will see them grouped with players from Memphis and western Kentucky University (WKU).

Returning Strength and Experienced Leadership

The team boasts a solid core of returning players, including Ryley Heath, a graduate student, and fifth-year senior Ricardo Matho. Joining them are redshirt sophomore Richie Reck and sophomore Ben Shedd. Heath led the team last year with a remarkable 70.4 scoring average and an extraordinary 101 birdies. Shedd demonstrated consistent performance as a true freshman,competing in all 10 tournaments with a 74.24 average and 83 birdies.

Reck and Matho both gained valuable experience last season, participating in four tournaments each. Reck maintained a 73 average, while Matho posted a 75.44 average. Their experience will be crucial as the team navigates the challenges of the upcoming season.

Did you know? – The Argent Financial Classic has been held annually as 2004, attracting top collegiate golf programs from across the region. Squire Creek Golf Course is a par-72, 7,319-yard layout.

New Talent Poised to Make an Impact

Jax State has bolstered its roster with several promising newcomers. Stanley Campbell, a transfer from Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, arrives with notable accolades, including being named medalist at the NJCAA Division II Championship and a finalist for the prestigious Gary player Award. Another key addition is Cole Lindeman, who joins the team from Wallace State, where he was ranked 25th nationally, securing five top-three finishes and two tournament victories.

the team also welcomes three talented freshmen: Karel Marik, Tyler Neidel, and Will Drake. Drake, in particular, has already demonstrated his potential, finishing as the runner-up in the AHSAA 6A championship for Cullman High School last season.

Pro tip: – Collegiate golf tournaments often emphasize consistency.A strong short game and minimizing big numbers on the scorecard are key to success in a 54-hole event.

Tournament Details and First-Round Tee Times

Play is scheduled to begin on Sunday at 12:50 p.m. with freshman will Drake leading off for the Gamecocks. The 54-hole tournament will be played over three days, testing the endurance and skill of the competitors. The lineup for Jax State includes Matho, Marik, Campbell, and Heath, alongside Drake, representing a blend of experience and fresh talent.

The Gamecocks are eager to begin their season and showcase their capabilities at the Argent Financial Classic.

Reader question: – What are your predictions for the Gamecocks’ performance this season, and which newcomer do you think will have the biggest impact? Share your thoughts!

Why: The Jax State Gamecocks are beginning their 2025-26 golf season.
who: The Jax State Gamecocks men’s golf team, including returning players Ryley Heath, Ricardo Matho, Richie Reck, and Ben Shedd, along with newcomers Stanley Campbell, Cole Lindeman, Karel Marik, Tyler Neidel, and Will Drake. They will be competing against teams from Memphis and Western Kentucky University.
What: They are participating in the Argent Financial Classic, a