Men's golfer Kyle Decenzo wins Space Coast Amateur event

Eastern Florida State College men's golfer Kyle Decenzo won the Space Coast Amateur golf tournament at Duran Golf Club in Viera on Sunday.

The sophomore shot a final-round 78 for a two-day total of 151 to win the tournament where he played his first official tournament.

"Five years ago, this was my first-ever tournament so it is awesome to be able to say I won this," Decenzo said. "I know this course better than anyone, played it over 1,000 times so I knew what shots I had to hit and when I stood over the ball, I knew exactly what I needed to do."

After a rough start in windy conditions, Decenzo found himself five strokes behind after seven holes.

"As soon as I realized (Keith) Storms hit a triple on 8, it gave me a second chance and I took it, played my heart out. Got even with him after 10 holes and grinded as hard as I could."

The win is the first since high school for the Viera High graduate and gives him confidence as he heads into the stretch run for the men's golf team.

"It definitely raises my confidence level. Now I have been in this situation so I know that I can come back and win. I will have that to think about the next time I am in this situation, that I can do it," Decenzo said. "I feel like I have been there now and winning is more of a goal and a dream."

Teammate Gregory Darnell finished sixth after shooting a 75 in the final round.

The men's golf team will travel to Miami April 2-3 for the Barry Buccaneer Invitational before hosting the NJCAA District 4 Championship April 23-24 at Duran Golf Club.