Final Results

Merrell Interview (video)

ELLINGTON, Conn. – Houston Baptist University freshman Jeffrey Merrell fired a 1-under par 71 for a 54-hole total of 2-under par 214 to claim his first career victory at the Connecticut Cup Tuesday at Ellington Ridge Country Club.

Merrell began the day tied for fifth at 1-under par after an opening-round 70, followed by a 73, but he tied for the lowest score of the day and took a one-stroke victory over Rhode Island's Branden Chicorka.

Freshman Brandon Wilhide also finished in the top 10, shooting a final-round 73 and tying for sixth at 2-over par 218, while freshman Preston Stanley tied for 18th, also shooting a 73 Tuesday and totaling 223 for the tournament. Senior Mark Slater and freshman Andy Ariens each tied for 67th at 237, with Slater shooting 76 and Ariens 81 in the final round. Junior Hudson Hansard tied for 62nd at 236, carding an 80 on the final 18.

Sacred Heart won the team title with a score of 882, one stroke ahead of Rhode Island, four strokes ahead of host Connecticut and five strokes ahead of HBU. The Huskies finished five strokes ahead of fifth-place Hartford.

HBU will host its final fall event, the Husky Invitational, Oct. 24-25 at Quail Valley Golf Club in Missouri City, Texas.