For the first time in 50 years, a former Cyclone golfer will be competing in the U.S. Open this weekend.

Jason Knutzon, who graduated from Iowa State in 1999, will tee off Thursday through Sunday at Olympia Fields, Ill., just outside Chicago.

Former ISU coach Dale Anderson said he knew Knutzon was destined for greatness while he was in college.

“I knew straight from his freshman year,” said Anderson, who coached Knutzon for his first three seasons. “I told him when I recruited him that I knew he would one day win a major. He was a man among boys out there.”

Knutzon recorded rounds of 70—71 and then preceded to win a playoff to secure one of the qualifying spots at a sectional in Glenview, Ill.

Knutzon could not be reached for comment, but his former coach spoke highly of him.

“Over the 30 years I was with Iowa State, Jason ranks among the top five all-time golfers that I have had the privilege to coach,” Anderson said.

Knutzon came to Iowa State through a string of luck for the Cyclone Team.

“Growing up, his father was stationed in Florida, but a hurricane forced his transfer to Virginia. Jason really didn’t want to stay there because the school didn’t have a golf team, so he came to live with his Grandpa in Eagle Grove, which helped us in recruiting,” Anderson said.

Jamie Bermel, who coached Knutzon during his last two seasons at Iowa State, said Knutzon was always dedicated to improving his craft.

“He redshirted before his fourth year, so he could work on his game,” Bermel said.

Only four golfers at the sectional out of 61 competitors advanced to the U.S. Open. Jason will be one of 156 competitors competing in the event.

Jason, who currently plays on the Asian Tour, holds the single season stroke average record at Iowa State, shooting a 72.7 in the 1996—1997 season.

“I wish him the best of luck in the future and will be rooting for him to make the final cut,” Anderson said.

Knutzon tees off on the 10th hole at Olympia Fields at 9 a.m. Thursday. His group includes Bret Guetz of Littleton, Colo., and Cortney Brisson of Wallace, N.C.