With enticing names such as Steelhead Plus, Deep Red and Big Bertha, the driver has become the most popular and intimidating of golf clubs. When using the driver, a difference of millimeters can distinguish a 275-yarder on the fairway or a massive slice into the woods.

The Penn State men's golf team has had relative success thus far off the tees, as is evident from the team's fourth-place performance in the FirstEnergy Collegiate held last weekend at the Windmill Lakes Golf Club in Ravenna, Ohio.

Led by identical scores of 216 from Jim Fuller and Ted Neville, Penn State finished 21 strokes behind host and leader Kent State in the tournament. Greg Pieczynski, Andrew Price and Jonas Hyden also competed for the Nittany Lions, who were also defeated by Miami of Ohio and Wright State.

Driving has been one of Penn State's strengths this season and has been a main factor in the team's accomplishments, said Penn State assistant men's golf coach Kirk Kayden.

"With a course as long as Windmill Lakes, one of the key factors is getting the ball out there," Kayden said. "It really helps us that we are able to hit it long." The driver, standing taller in the golf bag and owning a larger club face than its colleagues, can set up easier approach shots if swung properly. With sound fundamentals, driving should become secondary in nature, said Joe Hughes, PGA head golf professional for the Penn State golf courses.

"Driving is important, but it only makes up about 14 shots per round," Hughes said. "Good shots off the tee are necessary to set up the short game." Finishing 11th of 20 teams in the El Diablo Intercollegiate March 16, Penn State had a month-long vacation from competition, when the team practiced driving and chipping while gaining outdoor experience on the Penn State golf course. After the Princeton Invitational was cancelled by rain a week before, Penn State shot admirably in the FirstEnergy, but looks to improve in future competition.

"Jimbo and Ted had good rounds, and overall the team did well," Kayden said, adding, "For not competing for a month, we're pretty proud with the team's performance." Hoping for continued success from the tees and a consistent short game, Penn State will look to defend its turf this weekend in the Rutherford Invitational, which will be held Friday through Sunday on the Blue Course.