Junior Eric Jorgensen tied for 17th in the NCAA Men’s Golf Championship at Ohio State’s Scarlet Golf Course on Saturday.

Jorgensen shot a final round, two over-par 73 to finish with a four day total of 283 (72-69-69-73).

He shot a strong front nine with eight pars and a birdie on the ninth hole. His back nine performance was not as strong. He bogeyed holes 10, 11 and 12 before shooting pars on each of the last six holes.

MSU golf coach Mark Hankins said Jorgensen performed well considering it was his first time in the tournament.

“It was a great experience for him being there for the first time,” Hankins said. “We thought he had a legitimate shot at winning after being ranked eighth after three days.

“Overall he has something to build on for next year.”

Failing to win the overall championship was disappointing, but Jorgensen said he plans to return next year with a better approach.

“I expect our team to reach the tournament next year,” he said. “With the players we have coming back, we definitely have the capabilities of being amongst the nation’s best.”

Antonio Planas