The Liberty Flames men’s golf team finished the first day of the Conference USA Men’s Golf Championship in third place on April 27, trailing UTEP and New Mexico State at Texarkana Country Club.
This standing matters as only the top four teams after Wednesday’s play will advance to match play rounds on Thursday to compete for the 2026 conference title. Liberty held a one-stroke lead when all five golfers made the turn but fell behind during the back nine. UTEP played their final nine holes at five under par, while New Mexico State closed with four under par. Liberty finished those holes two over par, resulting in a drop down the leaderboard.
UTEP and New Mexico State both recorded opening rounds of nine under par (279), with Liberty finishing five shots back at four under par (284). Kennesaw State sits just behind in fourth place with three under par (285).
Freshman Silas Haarer was among Liberty’s top performers, ending tied for fourth place individually after shooting a three-under-par 69. “The postseason rookie opened the event with five birdies in his first eight holes, including four in a row, before dropping a few strokes on the back nine.” Senior Josh Ryan also contributed significantly; he started his round with a bogey but quickly rebounded with an eagle and ended tied for ninth place at two-under-par 70.
The Flames will begin Tuesday’s second round paired again with overnight leaders UTEP and New Mexico State, teeing off from No. 1 at 9 a.m. Eastern Time/8 a.m. Central Time.
As competition continues this week, teams are vying for spots in match play and ultimately aiming to secure the conference championship.
