The Georgia College & State University golf team stands seven strokes off the lead after the first round at the Coker College Invitational, in sole possession of fifth place. The Bobcats shot a 287, utilizing the third different starting five in as many tournaments this season.

The Bobcats, coached by Jimmy Wilson, have two top-20 individuals, both tied at 17th. Freshman Joe Young continues to impress in his second collegiate tournament, carding a 71. Senior Juan Bialet shares the spot with Young in his first fall action.

Also in his first tournament of the fall after nursing an injury, 2007 All-American Niclas Johansson is one stroke behind in 26th place.

Classmate Kyle Collins is 39th with a 73 and sophomore Clint Johns is 88th with a 78 in his first fall tournament.

St. Edward’s University is in first place with a 280, followed by Florida Southern College and defending Peach Belt Conference Champion Columbus State University tied with Barry University in third.

Matt Smith is tops on the leaderboard with a six-under 66.

The final round of the Third Annual Coker College Invitational takes place tomorrow.

GCSU SID Al Weston contributed to this report.

The Union-Recorder sports department can be reached at (478) 453-1465 or sports@unionrecorder.com