LAKE BLUFF, ILL. – The University of Arizona menS golf team stands third at 5-under par after the first two rounds of the Jackson T. Stephens Cup, positioning themselves for a run at Wednesday’s match play competition. Four Wildcats-Zach Pollo, William Wistrand, Connor Hamm, and Dillon Dean-are currently at even par or better, showcasing a strong team performance at the prestigious event.
The Jackson T. Stephens Cup is a important early-season tournament for collegiate golf, featuring a field of the nation’s top programs.The top four teams after stroke play advance to Wednesday’s match play, with the top two battling for the championship and the remaining teams competing for third place. Arizona’s performance thus far demonstrates their potential to contend for the title.
William Wistrand led the Wildcats with a stellar second round of 67 (-3), fueled by six birdies, and is tied for 11th at 1-under par alongside teammates zach Pollo and Connor Hamm.Pollo opened with a 68, highlighted by three birdies, while Hamm, playing in his home state of Illinois, carded consistent rounds of 70 and 69.
Freshman Dillon Dean continued to impress, maintaining an even-par score through 36 holes with rounds of 69 and 71. Filip Jakubcik is tied for 19th at 1-over par, boosted by a 69 in his second round.
Arizona’s team performance has been notably strong on par 5s, where they lead the field at 13-under par. However, the Wildcats are also tied for first in the number of bogeys made, an area for potential enhancement.Wistrand’s 10 birdies over the two rounds are the second-most in the tournament.
The Wildcats will tee off at 9:24 a.m. MST tomorrow, aiming to secure a top-four finish and advance to Wednesday’s match play.
