Collegiate Disc Golf Champs Take to Clarks Hill Lake After Historic Wins

The chill of winter may still linger on Clarks Hill Lake, but that didn't stop two National Collegiate Disc Golf Championship teams from taking a celebratory plunge into its waters. The Ferris State University team, fresh from claiming their third NCDGC Championship Flight title in five years, was joined by Southern Arkansas University's Women's Flight champions for the impromptu swim.

Ferris State's Bulldogs dominated the competition, finishing with a final round 9-under par 59 at the W.R. Jackson Course to bring their weeklong total to a 21-under par 522. Their performance marked a historic feat, joining Augusta University in the exclusive club of three-time Championship Flight winners. Fifth-year student Sam Mrdeza was instrumental in achieving this milestone, becoming the first player to participate on three Championship Flight title teams.

"We were being aggressive, definitely being aggressive because we just wanted to put the pressure on them," Mrdeza said, reflecting on their strategy. "Honestly that's most of our playing styles is just aggressive play." He credited his teammates' confidence and skills for their success, particularly in key moments like hole 14, where they secured a crucial stroke.

Meanwhile, Southern Arkansas University's Women's Flight champions proved themselves to be a force to be reckoned with, edging out Liberty and Oregon with a strong performance. Junior Madi Chitwood, who also claimed the women's individual title, expressed surprise at their success: "I don't think it's hit us yet that we won Nationals...Maybe tonight, maybe tomorrow. We're definitely excited, but I think we're still in the disbelief stage."

In Championship Flight individual play, Missouri S&T senior Mark Anderson stunned the competition with a hot final 9 to take home the victory. He attributed his success to careful preparation and a solid game plan, as well as the support of his teammates.

After their celebrations, both teams expressed enthusiasm for promoting disc golf in their respective communities. Chitwood and her teammate Whitney Brown plan to hold a clinic to raise awareness about the sport and attract more women players, while Mrdeza hinted at commemorating Ferris State's historic achievement with special rings.

As they basked in the glow of their victories, the teams also reflected on what lies ahead. For Anderson, it was a chance to savor his win: "It was just beyond expectation." For Chitwood and her teammates, it was an opportunity to build momentum for next year's NCDGC and inspire others to take up the sport.

This article was compiled from disc golf coverage with AI assistance. Source: pdga.com — https://www.pdga.com/news/triple-double