MCC Golf Qualifies for NJCAA DII National Tournament with Runner-Up Finish at Gulf District Championship
TUNICA, Miss. — The 7th-ranked Meridian Community College golf team is heading to the NJCAA Division II National Tournament after a clutch comeback performance at the Gulf District Championship, held April 21–23 at Tunica National Golf Club. The Eagles secured second place overall, finishing 19-over par as a team and edging out No. 12 Jones College, who dropped to third at 20-over after struggling on day three.
After a shaky start with an 11-over team score in the opening round, MCC steadily climbed the leaderboard. Freshman Dax Reaux led the early charge with an even-par round to position himself in the top five.
Day two brought more challenges, but the Eagles held steady, shooting 6-over as a team. Freshman Jace Duckworth highlighted the round with a 2-under score, propelling him into a tie for 3rd on the individual leaderboard, while Reaux stayed consistent at even-par once again.
The final day proved pivotal. MCC fired a 2-over team score, its best of the tournament. That performance pushed the Eagles past Jones to claim runner-up honors and secure their spot at Nationals.
Reaux capped off the week with a 2-under round on day three, finishing 4th overall at 2-under for the tournament. Duckworth finished tied for 5th at 2-over across all three days.
"This team continues to show grit and resilience under pressure," said MCC Head Coach Lance Strickland. "We didn't have the start we hoped for, but our players responded and battled back each round. I'm proud of their effort, and we're excited to carry this momentum into the national tournament."
With the second-place finish, the Eagles advance to the NJCAA Division II National Tournament, set for May 21-24 at Swan Lake Golf Club in Plymouth, Indiana.
Follow the Eagles on their journey to Nationals at mcceagles.com for tournament updates and coverage.
