Spartan golfers Oliver Pearson, freshman of Melbourne, Australia, and Reinhardt Saunderson, freshman of Whangaparaoa, Auckland, New Zealand, competed in the NJCAA Division II Men's Golf National Championship, from May 21-24, at Glen Lakes Golf Club in Foley, AL. Saunderson finished in 69th place and Pearson finished in 113th place, in a field of 131 total players.

Saunderson finished with a 310, which was 14 strokes off of All-American. An individual score of 280 won the title. Pearson missed the cut implemented for day four due to the weather. 

North said the two student-athletes were disappointed in how they played, but he considers it a huge individual accomplishment for each of them to qualify.

"They have been my leaders since day one, even as freshmen," said North. "Finishing all-region, coming home with tournament wins, and earning national championship experience will be invaluable in the future. The 2018-19 season has the making to be special."

The leaders of the Spartans will both be back for the 2018-19 campaign and look to lead a very talented Southwestern golf team. These two will join fellow national qualifier Bianca Findlay, freshman of Hopper Crossing, Australia, as returning Spartans with national championship experience under their belts.