RIVERSIDE — The Iowa Central men’s golf team secured a spot in the upcoming NJCAA Championships, placing second here Sunday at the Region XI Invitational.

The Tritons finished with a team total of 903 over the three rounds of play strokes behind Kirkwood. Des Moines Area was third followed by Hawkeye, Northeast, North Iowa Area, Iowa Lakes, Southwestern and Southeastern.

“Unbelievably proud of the effort we put forth this weekend,” Iowa Central head coach Kris Graewin said. “The journey we’ve taken together as a family over the last three years has been amazing.

“To have a team that has this kind of chemistry and support makes it even more special for my first trip as a team to the national tournament.”

Freshman Tomas Ribeiro led the way for Iowa Central, firing a 222 to place third Ribeiro had rounds of 72, 78 and 72 during the event.

“Tomas had a very solid weekend finishing in third,” Graewin said. “He has incredible talent and it’s great to see him being able to show that talent off in our biggest tournaments.”

Austin Erickson was right behind with a 225 for fourth, while Justin Schipper finished fifth with a three-round total of 226. Joe Forsting was eighth with a 232.

“Austin has been a rock for us all year and it continued this weekend. This young man is special. He relishes being in the big moments and I love having him in there,” Graewin said. “Justin is an unbelievable player. He’s come in and produced all year and a Top-5 finish is something that we’re getting used to and it’s very impressive.”

James Morgan of Kirkwood was meet medalist, firing a 2-over 218 for the meet.

“Our group is special with the amount of support each player gives each other,” Graewin said. “It was awesome to have all 10 guys and Kelly Boleyn here this weekend.

“The Iowa Central golf program truly is a family and I can’t be more proud of these athletes.”

The NJCAA Div. II Championships are May 18-21 in Plymouth, Indiana at Swan Lake Resort.