The men’s golf team, fresh off of a trip to sunny Oregon, kicked off their spring season last week at the Lou Flemere Invitational. The tournament, named after the late Bentley golf coach and member of the Bentley Athletic Hall of Fame, is an opportunity for teams entering the spring season to get out there, dust off the cobwebs and check out the coming competition for 18 holes.

Senior captain Jesse “Big Wood” Corradi’s score of 86 led the Jeffs, who as a team placed 20th out of a field of 23.

Though it seems Amherst has more warming up to do this season, it should be noted that many of the schools competing were Div. I programs and thus had the advantage of extra practice and an offseason schedule—two things that do not square with spirit of the NESCAC.

“The frigid temperatures and tough wind conditions made for tough goings,” said Corradi. “Lee Banta, a sophomore who has been showing promise in practice, got his feet wet on the links. All in all, it was a good outing considering the conditions, and we’re looking forward to seeing fans make the trek to the Little Three Tournament, which is in Williamstown this year.”

Always a positive force, Corradi has solid experience as a four-year player and looks to lead Jack Arena’s Jeffs to a successful season.

The team looks forward to a two-day tournament April 13-14 at Skidmore College. In the meantime, the men will support their female counterparts next weekend at Vassar College.