WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. - The Winston-Salem State University men's golf team competed head-to-head against Howard University in the inaugural Puryear Cup, falling in a tightly contested matchup at Bermuda Run Golf Course. Howard secured the victory with a 4–2.5 team result in the match-play format.

Honoring Sam Puryear Sr.

The Puryear Cup was created to celebrate the life and legacy of Sam Puryear Sr., a Winston-Salem State alumnus and Golf Hall of Famer whose impact on the game and his community continues to be deeply felt. His son, Sam Puryear Jr., the Head Coach of Howard University men's golf, was overjoyed to bring his young men to honor his father while competing against his father's alma mater. The day served not only as a competitive showcase, but as a meaningful tribute to a trailblazer who helped open doors for future generations of student-athletes.

In addition to the on-course competition, the Puryear family used the event to launch efforts to establish an endowment for golf scholarships in Mr. Puryear's name. This initiative is designed to provide future Rams golfers with expanded scholarship opportunities while ensuring that his commitment to education, mentorship, and access to the game lives on.

How It Happened

Competing on their home course, the Rams battled throughout the day against a strong and consistent Howard squad. The Puryear Cup featured a singles match-play format, with each individual match contributing to the overall team score. Despite strong individual performances, especially in the top matches, WSSU ultimately fell 4–2.5 to the Bison.

Singles Results

- Match 1 – Francisco Perez vs Godfrey Nsubuga – WSSU won (2 & 1)  
- Match 2 – Mitchell Grey vs Cameron Lutterloh – Tied  
- Match 3 – Michael Persusse vs Tanner Frye – Tied  
- Match 4 – Marlon Jones vs Connor Lineberry – HU won (3 & 2)
- Match 5 – Mathis Perroni vs Chase McLaughlin – HU won (1 UP)
- Match 6 – Kezaia Dimosi vs Tyler Thomas – Tied  
- Match 7 – John Thompson vs Ahmad Raoul – Tied  

Howard claimed the Puryear Cup with a 4–3 edge in singles match play.

Though the final tally favored Howard, the spirit of the event reflected competition, fellowship, and shared purpose between two proud programs.

WSSU will be back in action April 13–14 at the CIAA Championships in Mebane, North Carolina.