Senior Joseph Burlison shined in his final round of collegiate golf, leading the New York University men's team to a 10th-place finish at the NCAA Division III Championship at the Mission Inn Resort and Club in Howey-in-the-Hills, FL.
"I'm really proud of our guys this week. I know these weren't the results we were hoping for but our play on the last day showed their real potential," said Head Coach Katie Rudolph. "This is a very special team and it meant so much to take this crew to nationals."
Playing on the par-72, 6,748-yard El Campeon course, Burlison shot a two-under 70 behind four birdes on the day including three straight on the front nine. He finished with a four-round total of 295 which tied for 16th in the 221-person field.
Rookie Kevin Kim matched Burlison with his own 70 on Friday as the Violets' 288 was the lowest score of any team in the final round. Kim finished with a total of 324 which tied for 93rd.
Robbie Keyes continued his strong play, shooting a one-over 73 for a four-day total of 297. Keyes joined Burlison among the top-20 individuals as he finished in a tie for 19th.
"I'm thrilled our seniors posted great rounds today. Regardless of the results this team is one for the record books," Rudolph added. "Joey was our constant this week as he has been all season. Robbie has been the secret weapon we added to our roster this spring. He really elevated our program and I'm so thrilled he decided to come back."
Charles Hsieh posted an 84 today, bringing his total to 314 as he ended the tournament in a two-way tie for 79th.
Chris Lee saved his best round of the week for last, shooting a 75 on El Campeon as his total score of 319 gave him sole possession of 88th.
Rudolph praised Lee's leadership after the tournament.
"I'm so happy Chris is one of the captains of our team. He is such a great leader and while I know he wasn't happy with his showing, his contributions to our team are immeasurable."
The Violets' four-round total of 1,206 was just one stroke behind ninth-place Sewanee and led 11th-place Piedmont by three. Methodist ran away from the field to win the team title as its total of 1,168 was eight strokes better than the second-place team.
NYU vastly improved on its last NCAA Championship finish as the Violets placed 27th in 2019. The senior-laden squad will look for fresh faces to step up next year as Burlison, Keyes and Lee are set to graduate.