By: Hunter McKay
MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. – The Kennesaw State men's golf team opened the 2026-27 season with a strong showing Sunday at the Myrtle Beach Golf Trips Intercollegiate at The Grande Dunes Resort Club.
The Owls carded a 6-under-par 282 in the opening round and are tied for ninth in the 16-team field, just six shots off the lead.
Sophomore Walker Gantt paced KSU with a 4-under 68 and is tied for sixth individually. After playing his first four holes at 1-over, Gantt caught fire down the stretch, recording five birdies and nine pars over his final 14 holes.
Freshman Alejandro Carballo made an impressive collegiate debut, posting a 3-under 69 to sit tied for 14th. Carballo recorded 15 pars and three birdies in his first collegiate round.
Fellow freshman AJ Sailerno also opened his collegiate career with a strong performance, carding a 2-under 70. The Newnan, Georgia, native is tied for 23rd at 2-under-par.
Junior Luca Galligani carded a 3-over-par 75 and is tied for 70th, while transfer James Brash shot 78 and is tied for 86th at 6-over-par.
Playing as an individual, Reed Sweigart posted a 1-over 73 and is tied for 53rd.
The Owls return to action Monday for the second round. KSU will tee off every nine minutes from 8 to 8:36 a.m., beginning on No. 10.
The Champions Fund
The Champions Fund is a newly created, 100% tax deductible, philanthropic opportunity to contribute strategic revenue to Kennesaw State Athletics, with the goal of strengthening our ability to recruit and retain top-tier talent in this new era of collegiate athletics. Contributions to the Champions Fund will help aid in funding student-athlete recruitment and retention, as well as helping the Owls provide competitive excellence through investments in coaching, travel and facilities. The fund will also give an elevated student-athlete experience, including enhanced academic, nutrition, wellness and leadership programs. Donate to the Champions Fund here and help us support our Kennesaw State Owls.
