Jonesboro, Ark. (7/14/14) – A junior on the Arkansas State men's golf team, Seth Garner captured the Arkansas State Golf Association's Men's Stroke Play Championship at Texarkana Country Club this past weekend.  He finished the event eight strokes under par, capturing the title by a comfortable three-stroke margin.

Garner shot 69-69-70 for the three-day event.  He entered the final round of play of play with a tie for the lead, but his third round total of 70 was tied for the lowest round of the day on the amateur leaderboard for all players.

“Tournament golf at the collegiate level is a three-day event,” said Garner.  “I've had a few tournaments in the past where I would play well the 36 hole day and come back the next day for the final 18 and couldn't close it out.  I've been in contention to win before but couldn't finish, and this win and consistent week boosted my confidence to help me realize I can compete at a high level for three consecutive rounds.”

“Obviously I am extremely happy for Seth,” said A-State Head Men's Golf Coach Steve Johnson.  “He's been a solid member of the starting lineup the last two years and a big part of us moving forward as a program.  As a coach, you can see the progress that a player is making from the time and effort he or she is putting into their game, so it's very rewarding to watch them finally break through and win.  Probably more so with Seth because you could see the tremendous potential he has.  I think this is the best thing that could have happened to him as far as confidence, and I'm anxiously awaiting his return to campus next month.”

With the recent victory, Garner sits third in the ASGA's men's rankings for player of the year.  The ASGA has been serving Arkansas golfers since 1915 and is one of the most respected golf clubs in the country.