The Reiver Men finished their season off at the National Championship in Newton, Kansas this past week. The men started off well the first 2 days to put themselves in the middle of the 24 teams participating. "It was good to see the men get off to a good start," said Head coach Matt Robinson. "Because of unforeseen problems we brought 5 freshmen to compete this week, and they really stepped up".
After 2 days of Competing Ethan Smith found himself toward the top of the leader board at 5 under par and tied for 3rd place. "Ethan really managed the course well those 2 days. He didn't chase birdies but let them come to him," said Robinson.
After play on Day 3 the Reivers were still playing well and looking to crack the top 10. Smith was still in the top 3 and looking to deliver Iowa Westerns 2nd Individual Mens Champion in the program history. Max Nielsen also was hunting for a top 18 finish and sat in 22nd place.
Day 4 brought weather and course condition changes from the first 3 days. With overnight rain of an inch, continued rain during play and wind sustained at 20-25, the Men couldn't overcome all these elements and dropped back to finish 17th over-all. Smith scrambled all day too but couldn't get things going. He settled in 18th place.
"It was a good way to end the season, at the National Championships. We are young and I look forward to next season bringing everyone back and seeing what the future holds for us," said Robinson