(Cleveland, GA) – The No. 11 Truett McConnell University men’s golf team claimed the Appalachian Athletic Conference Championship title for the second consecutive year at Barnsley Gardens Golf Club. Competing against 13 teams, the Bears finished with a stellar final team score of 902 over three rounds, securing their spot as undisputed AAC Tournament Champions.
Coach Steve Patton shared his enthusiasm for the team’s performance, stating, “The men rallied together for an epic finish to win the conference championship. The chemistry and experience of our group were key factors in our victory. I am proud to be their coach!”
Senior Nate Thornton, who was instrumental in the team’s victory and named the AAC Player of the Year, reflected on the significance of the win: “I couldn’t be more proud of what this team has accomplished. Without the help and support of my teammates and coaches, and having God by my side out there on the course, none of this would be possible.”
Vic Mincey, a graduate senior on the team, expressed his joy and gratitude, saying, “Being able to win the conference championship with my best friends is an awesome feeling. It’s something I had been wanting to accomplish since freshman year, and I’m so glad that I got to share this moment with my brothers for my last ride. It’s been an amazing journey, and I’m thankful that God, Coach Patton, and Truett McConnell gave me the opportunity to play the sport that I love. Bear Down!”
In addition to their tournament success, TMU was also crowned the AAC Regular Season Champions for the second consecutive year. The team boasted three Bears named to the All-Conference First Team and All-Tournament Team—Jackson Stone, Peyton Shedd, and Nate Thornton—and one Bear, Ty Cranford, named to the All-Conference Second Team.
Looking ahead, the Bears are set to compete in the NAIA National Championship, which will be held from May 21 to May 24 at the Dalton Golf and Country Club in Dalton, GA. The team is eager to carry their winning momentum into the national tournament and represent Truett McConnell.
Truett McConnell University is a private Christian liberal arts and sciences university located in Cleveland, Georgia, offering over 50 different programs of study including baccalaureate and master’s degrees. The University boasts a 16:1 student to faculty ratio, with 100% of incoming students receiving financial aid. For more information about the Truett McConnell University, visit www.truett.edu.
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