VALDOSTA – Freshman Jordan Long is off to a fantastic start for the Valdosta State golf team, and his efforts were rewarded accordingly today, as he was named the Gulf South Conference Freshman of the Month for the month of October in an announcement by the league office.

Long has competed in both events for VSU so far this fall, and has helped lead the Blazers to strong finishes in each of their two tournaments. So far on the year, he is averaging 73.6 strokes per round and has racked up 15 birdies.

“Jordan’s hard work and determination is the reason for his solid start to his collegiate golf career,” said Head Coach Jared Purvis on Thursday. “He is very aware of what it takes from a results standpoint, and he has a good handle on the amount of preparation that is needed in order to accomplish his goals.”

Long’s top event thus far came on September 12th at the Kiawah Island Invitational, where he posted an even par 144. The Stockbridge, Ga. native reached the green in regulation 13 times and closed out with his best round of the season, a 71-under par effort that helped VSU claim a 2nd place overall finish in the tournament.

Valdosta State’s next scheduled tournament at the Guy Harvey Invitational in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. has been postponed due to Hurricane Matthew. The Blazers will return to action on October 24 in Rio Mar, Puerto Rico for the two-day UIS Island Getaway Tournament.