The Troy State men’s golf team will have five new members as it gears up for the beginning of its 2001-2002 season.

"I think this group of guys is going to be good," said head coach Barney Burnett. "I think that once they get some time behind them, they will be pretty good."

The Trojans bring in four freshmen and a junior college transfer. Christopher Chesteen transferred to TSU after playing the past two seasons at Wallace State-Dothan.

"Christopher is a solid player," Burnett said. "I look for him to step in and play some during the fall season."

Paul Coulthrust, a freshman from Venice, Fla., has been the surprise so far, qualifying after two rounds.

"He has a lot of talent," said Burnett. "He is going to really help us a lot and should be travelling with us on all our trips."

Andrew Atkinson comes to TSU as a freshman.

"Andrew has really impressed me so far with his play," said Burnett. "He has a lot of potential, and once he settles in to this part of the country he will make a big move on this team."

Sam Audia, a native of Huntsville, Ala., has also shown some talent as a freshman.

"Sam has a lot of talent," Burnett said. "He’s a good student and has a good junior background. He needs some time to get accustomed to playing college golf and he’ll be a fine player."

Curtis Mullis, who is attending TSU on an academic scholarship, has shown that, as a freshman, he wants to play in the starting line-up.

"Curtis is fifth place right now in qualifying" said Burnett. "He’s a good kid who really likes to play golf. He made a 31 on the ACT and is an ideal student-athlete."

Blake Flippo is a freshman from Sylacauga, who is also competing for a spot on the team.

"Blake is a good player," said Burnett. "He needs some time and experience more then anything else."

The Trojans open the season at the Raising Cane Classic, hosted by Southern Miss, on Sept. 10-11.