CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (October 12, 2026) – The Highland Community College men's golf team capped off a historic fall season in championship fashion Monday, capturing the Cougar Clash at Atkins Golf Club at the University of Illinois. The victory marked Highland's fifth tournament championship of the fall, establishing a new program record for the most successful fall season in school history.
Competing against a strong field, the Cougars posted rounds of 296 and 304 for a 36-hole total of 600, securing another team title to close out an impressive fall campaign.
The championship adds to a remarkable season for Highland, which leads the NJCAA in overall head-to-head victories over opponents and has captured five tournament titles this fall. The combination of consistent team performances and championship finishes has made the 2026 fall campaign the most successful in program history.
Sophomore Austin Dobbe led the Cougars individually, earning a third-place finish with rounds of 71 and 72 for a 1-under-par total of 143. Dobbe's performance marked another strong showing in a fall season that has featured multiple top finishes.
Team captain AJ Anderson joined Dobbe inside the top 10, tying for eighth place with consecutive rounds of 75 for a 6-over-par total of 150. Anderson continued his consistent play after a fall campaign highlighted by multiple individual tournament victories.
Jonathan Huenink contributed rounds of 74 and 79 for a 153 total, while Jake Maloret finished one stroke behind at 154 (76-78). Jack Maharaj rounded out Highland's team lineup with matching rounds of 81 for a 162 total.
Competing as individuals, Griffin Blanch posted a 156 (78-78), while Kaden Brown finished at 157 (80-77). Brock Brown opened with a 75 before withdrawing from the final round.
The Cougars' fifth championship serves as a fitting conclusion to a historic fall campaign. With an NJCAA-leading number of head-to-head victories and a program-record five tournament titles, Highland has established itself as one of the most successful teams in junior college golf this fall.
Highland now turns its attention to the spring championship season, looking to carry its momentum into postseason competition and pursue a third consecutive NJCAA National Championship appearance.
Highland Individual Results
Cougar Clash @ Atkins | October 12, 2026
Team Total: 296-304—600 | Tournament Champions
Five championships. An NJCAA-leading head-to-head record. A historic fall for Highland Men's Golf.
Full Results: https://www.golfgenius.com/pages/13135305326427387154?back_link=true
