GREENSBORO, N.C. – Jack Marcotte led four UNC Greensboro (UNCG) student-athletes at the Aggie Invitational on Monday afternoon.
Marcotte is fourth overall after carding a four-over 76 in the first round and 74 in the second round. He has a two-round score of 150. The chilly conditions were far from ideal for Marcotte, who persevered and battled.
"The conditions were very tough," Marcotte said. "Playing in the strong wind is always a great test of your skill and your mental strength. We had balls rolling all over the greens from being blown by the wind. I was able to put together a strong day by taking it shot by shot and having a short memory and forgetting what happened on previous holes."
Fortunately, for Marcotte, he had some familiarity with the Bryan Park Course, which came in handy during the rough moments.
"I hit many fairways which is key to playing well at Bryan Park," Marcotte said. "There's a ton of trouble off the tee if you don't hit it well. I putted really well today, making a ton of 5–15-foot putts for either par or birdie."
Marcotte is a junior business administration major from Apex, North Carolina. This year, Marcotte has been solid for the Spartans, averaging 74.60 through 15 rounds entering this tournament.
His season low was a 68 at the Wolfpack Invitational. He also finished 28th overall, which was his highest finish this season. This spring, Marcotte shot an even par 72 in the final round of the Grandover Collegiate.
"My time playing golf at UNCG has been an absolute blast," Marcotte said. "The best part is having two coaches that care for you on a personal level and do everything they can to make sure you can perform at your highest. Also, having teammates that are brothers is a huge piece."
He has also made an impression on UNCG veteran head coach
Terrance Stewart.
"Jack's attitude and determination on and off the course always helps to inspire his teammates," Stewart said.
Meanwhile,
Andrew Graham enjoyed a strong second round in which he shot three-over 75. He is tied for 27th with a two-round score of 158.
Connor Brown is tied for 35th overall after shooting a two-round score of 161.
Parker Truesdale is 48th overall with a 170.
The tournament concludes Tuesday with 18 holes beginning at 8:30 a.m.