BELLE VERNON, Pa. — The West Liberty University men's golf team sits in third place following Thursday's opening day of the 2026 Vulcan Invitational at Cedarbrook GCS.

The Hilltoppers are +4 in the team standings, trailing tournament host California (Pa.) and Fairmont State in the 14-team field. The tournament will resume Friday with the completion of the second round followed by the third and final round.

Ethan Cook led the way individually for West Liberty, standing tied for second at 3-under par through 11 holes. Cook opened with a 2-under front nine before adding another birdie on his first two holes of the back nine.
Chatum Courson was next for the Hilltoppers at even par through 11 holes and is tied for 12th individually. Justin Doerr stood at 1-over through 12 holes, placing him tied for 14th. Campbell Koegler was 6-over through 11 holes and tied for 36th, while Adam Gill was 9-over through 11 holes and tied for 49th.

West Liberty's strong start has the Hilltoppers within striking distance of the lead heading into Friday's conclusion. California (Pa.) leads the team standings, with Fairmont State second and West Liberty third.

The Vulcan Invitational is being played at Cedarbrook GCS and is hosted by California (Pa.). The Hilltoppers will return to the course Friday to complete the second round before playing the tournament's third and final round.




West Liberty University blends a small-town environment with a comprehensive college experience, fostering students' aspirations through hands-on learning, personalized support, and unique academic programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Learn more at westliberty.edu.