SAU golfer wins Jackson Masters tournament

By Jeff Steers

For Jackson Golf Committee

A couple of years ago golfer Zachary Koch would never consider carrying his golf bag for 36 holes on a course measuring nearly 7,000 yards.

But the Spring Arbor University senior appears to have fully recovered from a herniated disc in his back.

Koch shot an even-par 72 Sunday to win the Jackson Masters Golf Tournament at Calderone Golf Club. His two day total of 142 edged Jacob Malcangi by one stroke.

The two were the only players under par on a windy day with quick greens.

Koch knocked in a 20-foot birdie putt on the 18th hole to win.

“It was a big swinger from left to right … I played about a foot and a half out,” Koch said. “I was just trying to get it close to the hole.

“If it drops it drops.”

Koch was encouraged to play in the Jackson Masters thanks to SAU Coach Chris Chaney who send out a group chat to SAU golfers with a link to the tournament.

“Chris Chaney is an awesome coach, person, and player,” Koch said.

The senior is recovering from a herniated disc during his sophomore year. The Wisconsin native now feels like his game is coming around.

“All glory goes to God and my savior, Jesus Christ,” Koch proclaimed. “It (playing solid golf) has been a long time coming.”

Bret Valkuchak finished third overall in the tournament (145), Riley Hestwood and Jack Brockie tied for fourth (146), and Chaney finished sixth (147).

The Jackson Amateur Golf Tour men’s schedule continues Saturday, Aug. 15, at Sharp Park Golf Course with the Jackson Stableford Tournament. The alternative scoring format provides incentives for birdies and eagles and takes away points for bogeys or higher.

The tournament is a one-day event playing 36 holes.

Go to www.jacksongolf.net, click on men’s tournaments, and look for the link under 2026 Jackson Stableford.

SAU golfer Zachary Koch won the Jackson Masters Golf Tournament at Calderone Golf Club with a two-day total of 142 – 2 under par.