BLOOMINGTON, ILL.- After three competitive rounds of play, the Championship at the Den came to a close this afternoon for the Mid-American Junior Golf Tour. Michael Mattas (2016) of Streamwood, Ill., took the champion spot with a three-day total of 224. In second place is Ben Tyrrell (2018) of Edwardsville, Ill., who shot a three-day total of 225 just one behind the leader. Payton Kim (2016) of Palatine, Ill., took home the third place trophy after carding a tournament total of 226.
The Championship at the Den was a 54-hole stroke play competition featuring 99 junior golfers representing Illinois, Indiana and Iowa. This tournament featured the par-72 Den at Fox Creek Golf Course. The Boys Division played from 6,708 yards.
The MAJGT is designed for exceptionally talented junior golfers throughout the Midwest ages 12-18 and is nationally recognized by the Junior Golf Scoreboard and American Junior Golf Association with all of its events providing national exposure.
Mattas took the lead after recording five birdies during the final round of play. Mattas’ three-day total consisted of a 76 in the first round, an even-par 72 in the second round and a 75 in the final round which advanced him from his tie for second place from day two into the first place to finish.
“This course was really difficult for the last three rounds but I got through it and am really happy with how things turned out,” said Mattas when asked about his play during the tournament.
Tyrrell finished off the tournament just one stroke behind the leader after shooting 74, 79, 72 for a total score of 225. He carded four birdies during the final round to bring up his position from being tied for the sixth place position into the top three.
“I would really just like to thank my mom and dad for supporting me a bringing me to this tournament,” said Tyrrell.
Kim rounded out the leaders with a score of 73 in the first round, 77 in the second round and 76 in the final round for an overall total of 226. Kim also had eight birdies throughout the tournament to help him advance from his previous position.
“I am really impressed with the amount of talent that was here at this tournament for the last three days,” said senior director Stephanie Schwartz. “Our champion’s scores have been very close and it is great to see our leaders rise to the top.”
The MAJGT’s next event is set for August 10-11 at the Blackstone Classic in Marengo, Ill.
