Oct. 12, 2008

After a 2nd place finish last week at the Memphis Intercollegiate, the University of Memphis men's golf team has its eyes on a title. The team will head to Birmingham, Alabama this week to compete in the Jerry Pate National Intercollegiate.

The tournament will be held at the par-71 6,958-yard Old Overton Club with the University of Alabama serving as the competition's host.

The Tigers will turn to seniors Brad Benjamin and Jordan Payne this week for leadership, after both had strong showings last week at the Memphis Intercollegiate. Payne was the low man for the Tigers, firing a two-round total of 145 (73-72) and finishing in a tie for fifth. Benjamin carded a two-round total of 148 (76-72) to tie for 13th.

"I think Jordan and Brad are an integral part of our success as a team. If they play well, the rest of the team is motivated to follow their example," said Tiger head coach Grant Robbins.

Freshman Jack Belote also looks to continue his strong collegiate performances. After finishing tied for 17th in first collegiate competition at the Mason Rudolph, Belote was named the Conference USA male golfer of the week. Last week, Belote turned in a solid performance at the Memphis Intercollegiate, shooting rounds of 75-74 to tie for 20th.

"So far this year, Jack has continued to garner respect from not only his older teammates, but also players from other schools. He continues to work hard in our practices, and it shows," said Coach Robbins.

The Tigers will open play at the Jerry Pate National Intercollegiate Monday, October 13 at 8 a.m. (CT).