LAMAR, Colo. – Eastern Wyoming College golf teams opened Region IX play in dominant fashion Thursday and Friday, March 19-20, sweeping both the men’s and women’s titles at the LCC/Otero Spring Tournament.

The Lancer men claimed first place with a team score of +3, finishing well ahead of Lamar Community College (+25) and Northeastern Junior College (+31).

“We got off to a great start in Region IX play this week,” EWC coach Zach Smith said. “The guys also played great Friday to pull away from second place after going into the day only two strokes ahead of second place, Lamar.”

Individually, Lancer Josh White tied for with Lamar’s Cody Shatzer at 2-under par to win the tournament. Teammate Kaden Linford placed fourth at +2, while Ben Brown finished tied for fifth at +3. Freddie Dancox took seventh at +4, and Jace Nielsen rounded out the top 10 at +6.

“Freshman Josh White got his first collegiate win, which comes from his hard work in the gym and golf simulator this winter,” Smith said. “I’m excited to see what both teams can do this spring.”

On the women’s side, Eastern Wyoming College posted a team score of +75 to secure first place, ahead of North Platte Community College (+223).

“The girls set a team record on Friday when they shot a team score of 308,” Smith said. “I’m so happy to see Elli get her first college win. She’s been great her entire time at EWC, and to see her hard work finally pay off was amazing.”

EWC placed all five golfers in the top five individually, led by Elliann Irick, who earned medalist honors at +16. Sara Maciej followed closely in second at +17. Ashlyn Matheson and Madison Fujimoto tied for third at +21, while Georgie Paterakis finished fifth at +31.

“I’m excited to see what both teams can do this spring,” Smith said. “We are looking forward to heading to McCook this week.”

Eliann Irick (Left) – Josh White (Right)

A young woman with long blonde hair smiles outdoors, wearing a white collared shirt with EWC GOLF and a Nike logo, standing in front of green trees.

A young man wearing a white EWC Golf cap and a gray polo shirt with a horse and rider logo, standing outdoors on a golf course with green trees in the background.