Jim Walker

jim.walker@irontontribune.com

 

IRVING, Texas — Marshall senior golfer Nathan Kerns’ second-place finish has earned him a second award.

The former Ironton All-Ohio golfer was named the Conference USA Player of the Week for the second time in his career after finishing second overall in this week’s Marshall Invitational.

“It was a surprise, but at the same time it feels good because yesterday felt pretty bad. It was one of those things to put a smile on your face,” said Kerns.

“When you’re in contention as a team you want to play well. Virginia played well. If you look back on it, everybody has a shot or two they’d like to have back. But to tie for second was a good start to our season.”

Coming off a strong summer performance with three wins including the Ohio Amateur championship, Kerns’ 54-hole effort at the Marshall tournament was a key factor in the Herd tying for second-place as a team with two-time defending champion Ohio State.

“This award is well deserved,” said Herd coach Matt Grove. “Nathan is not only a leader but a great golfer and I am really happy for him.”

The runner-up finish was the highest for the Herd since winning the tournament in 1983.

Kerns was just one stroke behind medalist Korey Ward of Xavier University. Kerns was just one of three golfers in the field of 88 to record a score of under par in all three rounds.