The Valparaiso men's golf team split into two squads to start competition at the CSU Cougar Classic in Chicago, Ill. on Monday.  The Crusaders' brown team placed first with an opening round score of 293, while the gold team sits in fourth place after shooting a 301 for the opening 18 holes.

Nick Seitz paced not only the Crusaders, but the entire field, shooting an even-par round of 72 to open tournament action.  Eric Winters was in a tie for third after one round, finishing just one shot off Seitz's pace as he posted a 73 for the circuit in the opening round.

"The team continues to play with a lot of confidence, and I'm very pleased with the consistency in scoring that was demonstrated today, across two teams," said Crusader head coach David Gring.  "The guys are having a lot of fun out there and really playing some smart golf.  We have a lot of work left to do in the second round tomorrow and the guys are excited to play.  We will see what this team has under the hood, with the lead going into the final round."

Full results were not available.  The tournament continues Tuesday at Harborside International G.C. in Chicago.