Feb. 28, 2003

CONCORD, Calif. - The Santa Clara University men's golf team defeated Saint Mary's College by a score of 295-301 Thursday afternoon in a dual match at the Contra Costa Country Club in Concord, Calif.

It was a re-match of the top two teams from the Bronco Invitational this year, which was won by Saint Mary's on the second playoff hole at the Silver Creek Valley Country Club in late October.

This time was a little different as the Broncos posted a team score of 295 led by Michael Nicoletti's 3-under par, 69. Nicoletti was two shots better than the next competitor, which was Brent Jensen of Saint Mary's.

Blake Lugar was the next highest finisher for the Broncos, carding a 1-over par round of 73, finishing tied for third place with the Gaels' Joe Lanza. Justin Ahasic finished fifth with his 4-over par, 76, while Matt Klenz tied for sixth place with John Chirila after firing a 5-over par, 77.

Liam Kendregan rounded out the SMC scored that were included with the team with his 8-over par, 80. Santa Clara's Chris DeMartini and Steven Brooks of Saint Mary's were the two players who had their scores thrown out for the team record as they each finished in a tie for eighth place with Kendregan at 8-over par.

"I think we turned a corner today," said Santa Clara head coach John Kennaday. "We have been working very hard on our focus and commitment and I believe we saw the beginning of what is possible when both of those elements are at a high level. Although the scores weren't all that good today, we played much better and are improving which is what is important."

The Broncos will return to the links in two weeks, participating in the Sacramento State Invitational on March 11 and 12. Following that they will take part in the UCSB - Bite Invitational at the end of March.