One of the most heralded golfers in Penn State history joined this week’s world-class field at famed Oakmont Country Club. Kevin Foley, who hails from Somerville, N.J., will play in the 116th U.S. Open — his first — alongside fellow Nittany Lion T.J. Howe after gaining entry as the first alternate at the Summit, N.J., sectional.

Foley is one of only 27 players to earn a coveted spot in our nation’s championship via strong play at various sectional qualifying sites. The three-time GCAA All-American and 2007 Big Ten Freshman of the Year captured his first professional tournament at the Web.com Tour’s 2013 Panama Claro Championship. Foley graduated (with an Economics degree) to the pinnacle of pro golf when he became the first Nittany Lion to earn his PGA Tour card for the 2014-15 season.

Foley also notably won the prestigious Sunnehanna Amateur in nearby Johnstown in 2009, besting none other than Oklahoma State’s Rickie Fowler, who came in third behind current PGA Tour player Brian Harman. While at Penn State, Foley posted an impressive 72.8 scoring average over 122 collegiate rounds, with a career low of 65.

Congratulations to Kevin on this huge milestone and best of luck this week. We’ll be rooting for you and T.J. every step of the way.