The No. 12 Blue Mountain Christian men’s golf team concluded its 2025-26 season Wednesday at the NAIA Men’s Golf National Championship at TPC at Deere Run in Silvis, Illinois. The Toppers narrowly missed the cut after two rounds of play, ending their run in the team competition, according to the school.
Sophomore Cobey Riddle remains in the tournament as an individual after finishing the first two rounds tied for fourth place overall. Riddle fired a 70 in the opening round and a 71 in the second, sitting at three under par through two rounds. Playing on the par-70 course, he gained momentum late in his second round with birdies on holes 15 through 17.
The team’s season, while ending at nationals, was marked by historic achievements. The Toppers were ranked inside the NAIA Top 15 throughout the year and reached as high as No. 4 in the first poll of the season. They also gained national recognition early, with Riddle winning the Coastal Georgia Fall Invitational in the fall opener.
Junior Alex Nordstrom had a standout season, finishing only one tournament outside the top 10 during the regular season. He remains ranked inside the top 15 nationally on Clippd. Freshman Simon Meiby had a strong debut, including a top-six finish, while Acen Lambert and Damil Ataullah contributed key top-15 and top-25 finishes, respectively.
Head coach Kevin Barefield praised the team’s growth and resilience. “This team changed the standard for our program,” he said. “From the fall to nationals, they competed with confidence and represented Blue Mountain Christian the right way. I’m proud of every player because each contributed to our success.”
Riddle is set to compete in the third round of the national championship Thursday in Silvis, Illinois.
