Rutgers University
Colleton River Collegiate
Men's Golf Finishes Seventh at Colleton River Collegiate; Espenshade Posts Top-10 Finish
Mar 02 | Men's Golf
BLUFFTON, S.C. – Rutgers men's golf placed seventh at the Colleton River Collegiate, finishing at +4 over 54 holes at the Dye Course at Colleton River Club. The event, hosted by Michigan State, featured a 15-team field, with Kentucky capturing the team title at +11.
The Scarlet Knights were led by sophomore Bennett Espenshade, who finished ninth overall at 4-under par to secure a top-10 finish against a strong national field.
Espenshade credited his consistency throughout the week, particularly his play on the par 4 holes.
"I led the field in par-4 scoring, which was huge. That was a big part of the week," Espenshade said. "My putter finally heated up — I've been struggling with that the last few events — and I drove it great. I hit the ball really well overall and did a good job keeping a level head through all 54 holes."
One of the defining moments of his tournament came during the first round.
"Yesterday, when things were starting to crumble a little bit, I had to pitch out on Hole 7," Espenshade said. "I jarred a chip from about 35 yards short of the green, and that really got me back on track."
The sophomore also pointed to some growth in his game in his sophomore season.
"I think driving the golf ball has been my biggest improvement," he added. "Coming back to this course from last year, things looked different — in a good way. I felt much more confident over the ball this year compared to last, and I'm really excited about the progress there."
Rutgers showcased its depth throughout the lineup. Jeffrey Zatorski finished at +4 (T-44th), while Lucas Politano and Luke Koenig both carded +5 (T-48th). Argyle Downes posted a +7 (61st) finish, and Daniel Martinez Regal, who worked his way into the lineup for the event, placed 64th at +8.
Head coach Rob Shutte emphasized the balanced contributions across the roster.
"It was interesting — we had different guys stepping up at different times," Shutte said. "Argyle went out and shot bogey-free 4-under yesterday. It wasn't his day today, but that's the kind of depth we have. Daniel earned a spot in the lineup this week and put together a couple good rounds. Bennett was Mr. Consistent all three days. He may not end up Big Ten Player of the Week, but he was close — and that just shows the depth on this roster."
Shutte added that internal competition continues to elevate the program.
"We've got guys at home who'll be at the Johnny O this week, and I wouldn't be surprised to see them come out and play really well too," he said. "It's a crowded locker room — in a good way — and that competition should help us these next couple events."
Espenshade echoed that sentiment.
"Everyone's been working super hard and playing really well," he said. "I was joking with the guys earlier this week that we've had four Big Ten Players of the Week and I need to make it five. I don't think it'll happen this week, but I gave it a good shot."
Rutgers now turns its attention to hosting the Johnny O Invitational at Sea Island in Georgia.
"Johnny O should be great for us," Espenshade said. "We're hosting, so we control the setup. We've all seen the course, and I think we're in a really good spot to play well next weekend."
For Shutte, the event represents more than just another tournament.
"It's a great brand to be associated with," Shutte said. "Johnny O is a strong brand in the golf space, and partnering with Sea Island — a world-class PGA Tour venue — is big for us. Anytime Rutgers can align with a great sponsor, a great course, and a strong field, it's a positive. We're excited to show off the golf course, test the field, and hopefully have a great week."
Rutgers returns to action next weeked at the Johnny O Invitational as it continues preparation for Big Ten Conference postseason play.
Players Mentioned
