Valparaiso’s men’s golf team played a match at The Course at Aberdeen for the first time on Sunday afternoon, and defeated Chicago State 316-358 in a rare dual match.

Austin Gaugert (Lake Geneva, Wis./Badger H.S.) led the way for the Crusaders shooting a four over-par 76 to top all players on the day.  Brad Winters (Elgin, Ill./Saint Edward H.S.), playing in his first collegiate event, carded a 79 while Josh Kalita (Chesterton, Ind./Chesterton H.S.) added an 80.

“Considering the circumstances and the wind we didn’t play that bad,” head coach Mike Higdon said.  “Austin really played solid all day and Josh stayed strong to finish with an even par 36 on the back nine.  I was proud to see Brad jump in and contribute with a 79.”

Andrew Beischel (Whitefish Bay, Wis./Whitefish Bay H.S.) and Adam Gray (Portland, Ind./Jay County H.S.) each added 81s for the Brown and Gold on the 6,917-yard par 72 layout.

“We have some momentum carrying us forward heading into Butler’s tournament so we’ll see if we can use that to our advantage,” Higdon added.

The Crusaders will head to Indianapolis, Ind. for the Butler Fall Invitational on October 5 and 6.