HOWEY-IN-THE-HILLS, Fla. – The Transylvania University men's golf team continued its pursuit of a strong finish at the NCAA Division III Men's Golf Championship on Thursday, making a significant move up the leaderboard during the third round before ending the day in 17th place at Mission Resort.
After surviving a dramatic early morning playoff to advance to the championship's final 36 holes, the Pioneers carried that momentum into Thursday's round. Transylvania climbed as high as 14th place during the day and remained in contention throughout much of the afternoon before settling into 17th entering the tournament's final round.
The Pioneers were paced by senior Andy Steed, who delivered the team's lowest round of the day with an even-par 70. Steed carded a two-under-par 34 on the front nine, highlighted by birdies on the first and fifth holes. He added another birdie on the 14th hole and battled through a difficult closing stretch to finish at -2 for the round.
Transylvania received another steady performance from William Carr, who posted a 75. Carr recorded birdies on holes nine and 14 and remained among the team's top performers throughout the championship.
Senior Thom Buchert added a 76, highlighted by birdies on the 10th and 18th holes. Buchert's closing birdie helped the Pioneers maintain position on the leaderboard late in the round.
Connor Calhoun turned in a 77 for the Pioneers. Calhoun recorded a birdie on the 14th hole and provided another counting score as Transylvania continued its climb during the middle portion of the round.
Ty Ruttinger rounded out the lineup with a 79. After a slow start to the back nine, Ruttinger responded with a birdie on the 11th hole and an impressive eagle-two on the par-three 14th, showcasing the resilience that helped Transylvania advance through Wednesday's playoff.
The Pioneers will conclude their season Friday with the fourth and final round of the NCAA Division III Men's Golf Championship.
Transylvania Individual Scores – Round 3
Team Standing: 17th place after Round 3
