Scarlet Knights Freshmen Steal the Spotlight at The Hootie Intercollegiate
CHARLESTON, S.C. – The air was charged with excitement as the Scarlet Knights men’s golf team took to the fairways for The Hootie Intercollegiate this past week. This tournament marked their fourth outing of the season, and although the Knights had never faced this challenging course before, two remarkable freshmen shone bright, showcasing their immense potential on a national stage.
A Fresh Attitude on the Greens
Leading the charge for Rutgers were Argyle Downes and Bennett Espenshade—two freshmen who defied the odds and delivered impressive performances against formidable competition.
- Argyle Downes finished 35th overall, demonstrating consistency and poise.
- Bennett Espenshade not only held his ground but also set a new personal benchmark, finishing in a tie for 22nd, proving that he is indeed a rising star in collegiate golf.
Espenshade’s Confidence Shines Through
Bennett Espenshade, reflecting on his time on the course, expressed a newfound confidence. “I felt pretty confident with where my swing was,” he remarked. “The course was super wide open, and there weren’t many uncomfortable tee boxes, so I could let the ball fly.” His ability to adapt to the course’s demands has certainly paid dividends.
In discussing his progression this season, he stated, “My driver has gotten a lot better, and I’ve started to get comfortable switching to a cut in my bag. All the work I put into my swing is starting to pay off.” It’s clear that Espenshade’s commitment to improvement is influencing his game in a significant way.
Recognition from the Coach
Bennett’s growth hasn’t gone unnoticed by head coach Rob Shutte. “Bennett gets better every week. Colleton was his best finish to date, and he set a new mark at The Hootie. He’s such a great competitor,” Shutte noted, highlighting the competitive spirit and relentless drive that define Espenshade’s approach.
As the Scarlet Knights head into April—typically a climactic month in collegiate golf—Shutte is optimistic about the team’s trajectory. “Both of those freshmen led us; they were explosive. You’re starting to see the experience they’ve gained from the fall, and they now look and act like they belong,” he added, indicating that the Knights are gaining momentum.
Leading by Example
“It’s always great to lead the team and set an example as a freshman,” Espenshade concluded. He reflected on the wisdom he has absorbed from senior players, noting their valuable contributions throughout the season. “They’ve had nice finishes for us, so it’s nice to help them and the team out a bit.” His humility and teamwork are qualities that bode well for both his future and that of the program.
What Lies Ahead
Looking forward, the Scarlet Knights gear up to tee off again on April 5th at “The Haskins” in Augusta, Georgia, eager to capitalize on the momentum built from their performances at The Hootie. With the fresh talent of Downes and Espenshade leading the charge, the Knights are poised to make a significant impact in the final stretch of the season.
Conclusion
The Scarlet Knights’ young guns are setting the stage for what could be a thrilling conclusion to the season. As both Argyle Downes and Bennett Espenshade continue to develop, they may very well become key players in Rutgers’ pursuit of excellence on the green. Keep an eye on these freshmen as they look to leave their mark in Augusta!
