Mocs Capture 2008 SoCon Men’s Golf Championship

FLORENCE, S.C.—Chattanooga got off to a great start and then held on to defend its 2007 title at the Southern Conference Men’s Golf Championship at the Country Club of South Carolina in Florence. The Mocs shot a final round 294 (+6) to finish at 865 (+1), eight strokes ahead of runner-up College of Charleston.

“It was not the prettiest win, but I’ll take it,” said Head Coach Mark Guhne. “We got off to a good start and then held on. It was not easy, but golf seldom is. I’m proud of the effort.

“Any time you are considered the best in your conference, it is a great statement about your program,” added Guhne, who was chosen the league's coach of the year for the second straight season.

UTC was five-under par on its round after nine holes with a 12-shot lead. Then the wind and rain settled in making scoring tougher, but the Mocs held on for the championship. The win is the Mocs fifth title on the season, a new school record.

“It was a goal of ours coming into the season,” added Guhne. “Now, it’s on to regionals to try to accomplish another goal.”

Ben Rickett entered the day with a one-shot lead for medalist honors. A final round 74 (+2) left him four shots shy of winning the tournament as he finished 215 (-1) behind repeat winner Matt Cook (-5/211) of Western Carolina.

The Mocs place four players in the top 10, and a fifth in the top 15. Derek Rende (72 today), J.T. Clendenin (74) and Fredrik Qvicker (75) each finished at two-over par 218, tied for seventh. Jonathan Hodge carded a 74 to complete the championship tied for 14th with a total of 220 (+4). Hodge was chosen SoCon Player of the Year for the second straight season.

The Mocs receive the league’s automatic bid to the NCAA Regionals. UTC hosts the East Regional at Council Fire Golf Club May 15-17.