Royals Earn Runner-Up Finish at Fall Koala Invite

WAGRAM, N.C. – The Johnson University men's golf team turned in a strong performance at the 2025 Fall Koala Invite, finishing second overall among a competitive field at the Deercroft Golf Club in Wagram, North Carolina. The Royals posted team rounds of 296 and 299 for a two-day total of 595 (+19), securing a runner-up finish behind Columbia International (+3).

Leading the way for Johnson was Sondre Pedersen, who delivered back-to-back even-par rounds of 72 (E) to finish at even par for the tournament, anchoring the team's steady play across both days. Dean Knight matched that consistency with rounds of 72 (E) and 80 (+8) to close at 152 (+8), while Jetson Murrell followed with an 82 (+10) on day one and a sharp 71 (-1) on day two, showing resilience and improvement throughout the tournament.

Landon Dyer contributed rounds of 79 (+7) and 76 (+4) for a two-day total of 155 (+11), and Coopar Nianios rounded out the scoring with 76 (+4) and 73 (+1), combining for a 149 (+5) finish that helped secure the Royals' team position.

Competing as an individual, Nathan Jackson posted consistent rounds of 75 (+3) and 74 (+2) for a 149 (+5) total, marking a strong individual showing outside of the team score.

Head Coach Jace Devault praised the group's focus and fight throughout the weekend:

"Overall I am super proud of the guys! We once again put ourselves in position to win the golf tournament and that's what you want. The more we put ourselves in these positions, it will pay off and the wins will come. Everyone contributed to the success of the tournament and I expect this to carry over into next week. Our mindset is changing to a team that can win vs just showing up hoping for the best. We will get back to work to prepare for next week!"

The Royals return to action October 12-14 at the Bryan College Fall Invitational in Ooltewah, TN.