William Jessup raises thousands for student athlete scholarships

William Jessup University's athletic department raised more than $76,000 for scholarships for student athletes at the 11th annual Warrior Golf Classic on June 12 at the Timber Creek Golf Course in Roseville. "We are very pleased with the support that our golf tournament has generated over the years bringing in over $415,000 for scholarships. Thanks to the generous support of the community, our sponsors and our presenting sponsor, Reeve Knight Construction, even in today's very challenging economy we are able to again report that we surpassed last year's proceeds," said Farnum Smith, WJU director of athletics. The 39 golf teams (156 golfers), played a scramble format, which is the largest tournament to date at Timber Creek Golf Course according to Golf Pro and Course Manager Mark Gouger. The day's events were complimented with mild 81-degree weather. Two teams tied for first place so the winners were decided by a back nine playoff. The TaylorTeter Partnership team of Russ Taylor, Brian Richmond, Blair Cunnings and Steve Polanco took home the winning trophies with a score of 57, back nine 28. The Rispoli Consulting team of Bob Rispoli, Todd Turner, Steve Schroeder and Scott Tobin earned the second place title with a score of 57, back nine 29. The third place team was secured by the Mercedes team of Greg Elmasian, Tracy Nichols, Mike Patrick and James Crowley with a score of 61. Closest to the Pin was awarded to Todd Olson. Longest Drive was awarded to Dustin Griffith.All the funds raised from the golf tournament assist the athletic department in providing scholarships for student athletes. Last year WJU sent three of its teams to Nationals; women's soccer and men's and women's cross country. This fall WJU is adding women's softball to the athletic program for a total of 11 athletic teams and will have approximately 150 student athletes attending for the 2009-10 academic year.