Feb. 21, 2005

Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla. – The South Carolina men’s golf team is two under par (286) with the lead at the Mercedes Benz Collegiate Championship. The Championship is being held at Sawgrass, the former site of the Tournament Player’s Championship.

USC Head Coach Puggy Blackmon talked about the tournament Sunday night.

“Because it is beachside layout, it is very difficult. The 15 mph winds made conditions today very tricky. The team played very solid today. I was very pleased with their patience and discipline. We established a very clear game plan and executed it well.

“It was a great experience to play with two very good teams like UCLA and Florida. It certainly gives our team an additional boost as we move into the spring.”

On West Streib

“West Streib, in his first spring event, played very well. He was our lead guy today and his round provided momentum for the team.”

On Robert Svensson

“Robert is breaking through and gave us a glimpse today of his incredible potential. His putting continues to improve and confidence is growing.

On Mark Anderson

“Mark Anderson continues his great play and from indications thus far is establishing himself as a solid part of our line-up.”

On Eirik Johansen

“He is back in All-American form and is carrying himself like a leader.”