Golden Eagles Make NAIA Debut at OUAZ Fall Invitational

Surprise, AZ — The La Sierra University Men's Golf team teed off a new era this week, competing in their first-ever tournament at the NAIA level during the OUAZ Fall Invitational at Sterling Grove Golf & Country Club.

In the sweltering Arizona heat, junior Ky Stopp led the Golden Eagles with a steady three-day total of 233. After opening with an 81 on Monday morning, Stopp bounced back impressively in the afternoon 18, firing a 76 that included back-to-back birdies on holes 14 and 15. He carried that momentum into Tuesday's final round, bookending his day with birdies on holes 10 and 9 to post another solid 76.

Freshmen Tyler Cole and Austin Covert also made their collegiate debuts, showing glimpses of the future for La Sierra golf. Cole carded a three-day total of 252, highlighted by a strong opening-round 80. Covert finished with a 268, with his low round being an 86 on day one.

Competing in 90-degree conditions over 54 holes, the field of 60 players saw only six finish under par, underscoring the challenge the Golden Eagles faced in their inaugural outing.

Unfortunately, the team was unable to post an official team score after junior Kyle Harford was forced to withdraw due to a injury during the first round. Harford was off to a hot start, sitting at two-over-par through 14 holes and in the top 20 before the injury cut his day short.

The Golden Eagles will return to the course on October 20th when they host the Aliso Viejo Shootout at Aliso Viejo Country Club, welcoming Soka University, Hope International, and Nobel University.