The University of Scranton men's golf team kicked off its 2026-27 campaign with a strong showing, placing third in a competitive field at the Bloomsburg Invitational over the weekend.

Playing at Frost Valley Country Club, the Royals posted a two-day total of 600, finishing just six strokes back of co-leaders Millersville and Chestnut Hill. Millersville claimed the team title via tiebreaker.

Richard Essen led the way for Scranton, finishing tied for third individually with a 146 (+2). He opened with a 76 (+4) before rebounding with a 70 (-2) in the final round, highlighted by seven birdies. Cade Kelleher turned in a ninth-place effort, carding identical 75s (+3) for a 150 (+6) total.

Marshall Kain tied for 13th after rounds of 76 (+4) and 77 (+5), good for a 153 (+9). Joey Dell and Jack Leonard rounded out the Royals' scoring, each tying for 15th at 154 (+10).

Scranton returns to action Tuesday, Sept. 15, in a dual match against King's College at Wyoming Valley Country Club, with tee time set for 1:00 p.m.