BLUFFTON — After finishing the last year 17th at the NAIA National Tournament, USCB Men's Golf added one more feather to its cap to conclude it's time in the NAIA - the GCAA Academic National Championship - but now, the focus switches to the pursuit of its first Peach Belt Conference Title. 

"It's really a new chapter for us," said coach Cory Cottrell. "It's to more so, set that standard for how we want to be known around the country. We had a good reputation for our play and how we conducted our business in the NAIA and we're excited to kick down the door in DII." 

Beaufort returns seven players from last season's roster and welcome four newcomers who should immediately make an impact on the course. 

Seniors Jonas Demant, Christoph Hagenauer, Caelan Sammy and Skyler Sicoli anchor a youthful core with five underclassman. Sophomore Christofer Hammar who saw significant playing time last season, is excited for the upcoming year. 

"I'm most excited to start playing in the Peach Belt," said Hammar. "I'm excited to not only grow as a person but as a golfer as well, but truly excited for all the fun we're going to have as a team." 

The 2023-24 season begins Monday at the Mizuno Intercollegiate hosted by North Georgia at the Chattahoochee Golf Club. USCB will be one of 17 teams in the field and will get a first-hand experience of playing in the PBC. 

"We've got an incredibly strong schedule. A great opportunity to go out and see some new golf courses, see some of the best team in the country and we're looking forward to going out and competing with them."