GAFFNEY, S.C. - CIU wrapped up competition at the Pioneer Invitational with a fourth-place team finish, highlighted by a pair of top-10 individual performances. The two-day event, hosted by Spartanburg Methodist College, an Appalachian Athletic Conference member, featured a field of 85 golfers.

Nate Caughman led the way for the Rams, finishing seventh overall. After opening with a 1-over 73 in round one, Caughman followed with a 5-over 77 on day two to post a two-round total of 150. 

Luke Hammond also turned in a strong showing, tying for 10th overall. Hammond carded an 8-over 80 in the opening round before bouncing back with one of the team's best rounds of the tournament Tuesday, firing a 1-over 73 to climb the leaderboard. He finished at 153 for the event.

Andrew Haarlow posted rounds of 81 and 78 to finish at 159, while Camden Stikeleather recorded scores of 79 and 80 for a 159 total. Micah Smith rounded out the Rams' lineup with rounds of 81 and 83.

Head coach Major McWhorter reflected on this week, saying, "Cold and windy conditions played a big factor in our play this week, but I'm proud of how we battled. We wanted a chance to win heading into the last day, and we gave ourselves that chance. Nate and Luke, with Top-10 finishes, helped us stay at the top of the leaderboard."