Throughout his career, Rodney Dangerfield was famous for his saying “I don’t get no respect.” Today, his trademark phrase can still be used to describe the performance of the 2007 ISU men’s golf team.

The team has begun the season on a torrid pace by placing in the top two in three out of the first four tournaments they have played in so far. Yet, the team is only ranked 68th in the latest collegiate golf poll released by Golfweek. Coach Jay Horton does not see the ranking as a true indicator of the team’s talent level.

“Going into the season, we knew we had a good team. For us, that’s all that matters. If we continue to do well week after week, things will eventually fall into place,” Horton said.

The next chance for the Cyclones to prove themselves is the Mason Rudolph Invitational in Nashville, Tenn. The tournament, which starts Sunday and winds up Tuesday, is one that is unfamiliar to the Cyclones.

“We have never played in this event, but I do not see any problems with that. That’s just part of college golf,” Horton said. “Everybody in this event is a tough team, but we can only worry how we do as a team.”

One of the keys to their successful start has been the consistent play of senior leaders Chris Baker and Joe Cermak. Baker has placed fourth or better in three of the four tournaments, and has been top Cyclone in every tournament. Each week, the steady play of the captains has helped the squad post its best fall season in school history.

“I told our team that consistency from week to week is one area we needed to work on,” Horton said. “Chris and Joe really took that message to heart and have taken firm control of those first two spots.”