Rutherford Times

Three players representing Middle Tennessee men's golf wrapped up the first day of play at the Thomas Sharkey Individual Collegiate on Sunday. Markus Varjun, Tate Heintzelman and Luke Perkins hit the course for MTSU's first golf action of the spring semester, with Varjun pacing the trio.

Under sunny skies with temperatures reaching the low 60s, Varjun ended the day tied for seventh at 143 (-1). He finished the day strong, going 2-under with no bogeys over his final six holes. 

Perkins, making his collegiate debut, adjusted nicely after starting the day with a 78 (+6), notching five birdies in the second to card a 70 (-2). He heads into Monday's third round tied for 24th out of 61 players at 148 (+4).

Heintzelman is tied for 38th at 153 (+9). 

By the Numbers

70 – Perkins' second-round 70 (-2) was the lowest by a Blue Raider on Sunday.

8 – Varjun is eight strokes behind leader Parker Claxton of Georgia Southern.

6 - Varjun leads the three Blue Raiders with six birdies through two rounds.

Head coach Mark McEntire on the start to the spring

"Very solid golf from Markus today!  He had a very good break and did some great work on his game. I look forward to seeing him put it together tomorrow and move up the board

Excellent second round from Luke. He was a touch nervous in the first round as a Blue Raider.  He settled in nicely and played very well. I am excited to get him more reps and continue to get better."

Tournament Notes

• Perkins recorded more birdies in the second round than 20 players carded all day Sunday.
• Play resumes Monday morning with the third and final round.

Original source can be found here