The annual Xavier Invitational, presented by Gateway Logistics, is set to kick off this weekend at the historic Maketewah Country Club in Cincinnati, Ohio. The tournament will take place on Monday and Tuesday (Oct 21 & 22) at one of the Midwest’s most elite clubs.  This tournament will feature top talent from across the country, but all eyes are on the host team, Xavier University.  Xavier comes into this event with significant momentum after 5th, 4th and 3rd place finishes this fall and opening the season with a national ranking of 140 which is their highest ranking in over 10 years.

 

LINEUP

 
The Musketeers, led by head coach Brian Arlinghaus & assistant coach Tyler Goecke, will be showcasing a dynamic starting lineup eager to make a statement on their home course:

• Carson Bellish (Jr.) – A steady performer throughout the season, Bellish has been a key contributor for Xavier in every event this fall. Known for his precision off the tee and calm demeanor under pressure, Bellish has consistently posted strong scores in the opening rounds, setting the pace for the team.
• Kellen Dean (Fr.) – Dean has a knack for coming through in clutch situations. Fresh off his first college victory at the Grier Jones Shocker Invitational, Dean looks to continue his good play relying on his solid short game and a fearless approach shots.  Expect Dean to be a difference-maker, especially on the par-3s.
• Mason Witt (Sr.) – One of the team’s most experienced players, Witt brings experience and a wealth of tournament knowledge. He has a balanced game, but relies heavily on his big power off the tee and his consistent ball striking. Witt will be looking to utilize his four years of course knowledge to help guide the Musketeers to a win. 
• Ray Filter (So.) – A rising talent in the lineup, Filter has been showing tremendous potential throughout the season. His swagger, aggressive play style and ability to score low on par-5s give him the capability to make a big impact, especially if he gets hot early in the tournament.
• AJ Wilhelm (So.) – Rounding out the lineup is AJ Wilhelm.  His physical talents are one of the tops in the game, however it will be his focus and mental toughness that Xavier will need to be on point as they look to contend for the team title on a course that rewards patience and strategy.

 

MAKETEWAH COUNTRY CLUB

  

• Maketewah Country Club is a challenging, tree-lined course with fast greens and demanding shot placement. This classic Donald Ross design rewards accuracy and disciplined play, something that Xavier’s roster will need to capitalize on to have a strong showing. The par- 70yout, spanning over 7,100 yards, features a mix of long par-4s and scoreable par-5s, creating an ideal setting for drama and intense competition.

WHAT TO WATCH FOR

 

•  With a combination of seasoned leadership and rising stars, Xavier University’s team is poised to put on an exciting display at their home event. The Musketeers will look to leverage their familiarity with Maketewah’s intricacies as they compete against a strong field of competitors. The home-course advantage, along with the backing of local fans, may just be what the team needs to secure a top finish this year.
• As the Xavier Invitational tees off, all eyes will be on how Bellish, Dean, Witt, Filter, and Wilhelm perform under pressure. If they can put together complete rounds and work as a unit, Xavier has a legitimate chance to walk away with the title.

 

THE FIELD

 
The field of competing teams includes a strong lineup of programs with notable national rankings:
 

• University of Connecticut (#182) – A perennial force in Northeast golf and the only Big East team in the field, UConn looks to capitalize on its recent performances in high-profile tournaments.
• Oakland University (#145) – With a talented squad, Oakland aims to make waves and establish its standing among the top teams.
• Morehead State University (#195) – The Eagles are poised for a solid showing after an impressive fall season, with several top-10 finishes.
• University of Southern Indiana (#231) – Recently moving to Division I, Southern Indiana is eager to prove themselves among stronger competition.
• Austin Peay State University (#144) – Known for their gritty performances, Austin Peay hopes to carry forward the momentum from their recent tournaments.
• Tennessee Tech University (#262) – The Golden Eagles will rely on their depth and consistency to challenge the field.
• Northern Kentucky University (#225) – A local rival, NKU is looking to make a statement close to home.
• University of Detroit Mercy (#268) – With a developing roster, Detroit Mercy is focused on gaining valuable experience against tough competition.
• Purdue Fort Wayne (#200) – Another team in rebuilding mode, Purdue Fort Wayne seeks to surprise with individual standout performances.
• Indiana University–Indianapolis (IUPUI) (#239) – IUPUI has a history of punching above their weight and will look to continue their strong play this season.

 
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