Emerich and Redbirds 2nd at ORU Shootout

[September 30, 2008]  BROKEN ARROW, Okla. -- Junior Joe Emerich currently sits in second place
after firing a two-round total of 143 (69-74) to lead the Illinois State men's golf team into a tie for second place Monday at the Bob Hurley Auto ORU Shootout at the Golf Club of Oklahoma.  

The Redbirds finished the day tied for second with Northern Illinois on the par-72, 7,183-yard course, with a two-round total of 598 (292-306). Along with Emerich, Tommy Bliefnick also finds himself in the top 10,
carding a two-round total of 146 (73-73) and a share of seventh place. Sophomore Jeff Kellen found himself in red figures after the first round and currently sits tied for 17th place, tallying a 151 (71-80) after two rounds.

Head coach Ray Kralis was proud of his team's performance and hopes the Redbirds can separate themselves from the field on Tuesday.

"We got off to a great start and let a one-stroke lead after the first round slip away from us, so tomorrow presents a big opportunity," said Kralis. "We know what we are capable of, and hopefully we will be able to play to our potential and make up some ground."

Also competing for the Redbirds was Kyle Bragg, who shot a 159 (79-80) and a share of 43rd place, while sophomore Will Cullen rounded out the scoring, shooting 163 (84-79), and is tied for 49th.

"With only three teams below 600, it tells you a how difficult the course was playing," said Kralis. "The wind was up, and so were the scores, but I hope we take full advantage of our first-day team
standing."

The Redbirds finished ahead of fellow Missouri Valley Conference foe Missouri State, which shot a 648, and is currently in 12th place.

Texas State is the leader after day one, with a two-round total of 583 (293-290). Texas State's Corey Roberson is the current leader, shooting
137 (68-69).

Play will resume Tuesday at 8 a.m. with a shotgun start for the conclusion of the tournament.

[Text from file received from ISU Athletic Dept.]