NIACC men in 5th after day one at Jimmie Spring Swing

PANORA - The NIACC men's golf team sits in fifth place after day one at the season-opening 2021 Jimmie Spring Swing Monday at the Lake Panorama Golf Course.

The Trojans shot a 327 heading into Tuesday's second day of the 36-hole tournament. Iowa Western leads with a 295 and Kirkwood and the University of Jamestown are tied for second with a a pair of 303s.

"It was a tough day for the guys on a quality golf course in difficult playing conditions," NIACC coach Chris Frenz said. "Without a spring break and a chance to get the game ready, it's hard to expect a lot out of the gates, but this team is better that we performed (Monday).

"The effort was there from all of them and they never got down on themselves. We were just off a bit. We'll get better going forward."

John Doherty led the Trojans with an 80. Kai Nelles was next in line with an 81. Also for the Trojans, JJ Wickman shot an 82 and Jack Barragy shot an 84. Beau Thompson had a non-counting 89 for the Trojans.

"John Doherty did a nice job of holding things together," Frenz said. "Kai Nelles was plus-three after 12 holes but found some trouble on the finishing holes."

Playing as individuals, NIACC's Hunter Heintz shot a 96 and Tyler Eaton shot a 97.

"Our goal (Tuesday) is to hold our position and obviously improve our scores," Frenz said. "It feels good to be on a golf course - just wish it was sunny and warmer."

Iowa Western's Jakob Falk Schollert is the individual leader with a 2-under par 70, Kirkwood's Jake Patterson, Iowa Western's Carson Caylor and Briar Cliff's Andrew Arndorfer are tied for second with 1-over par 73s.

Team standings - Iowa Western 295, Kirkwood 303, University of Jamestown 303, Briar Cliff 306, NIACc 327, Southwestern 330, Dordt 340, Simpson College 356.