The Triton golf squad, which is currently ranked sixth in the nation among Division II schools, will start up its season on Feb. 24.

UCSD has taken part in three tournaments so far this year, all during the fall, finishing second out of 12 teams, fifth of 12 teams and eighth of 17 teams, respectively.

The Tritons, who were not allowed to practice as a team from the end of its third tournament until Jan. 6, are back as a group again and practicing as normal.

“”Right now is the time of year that we’re making sure we have all our equipment right ‹ checking clubs and grips and making sure everyone has the right gear,”” head coach Mike Wydra said. “”We’re also working on technique now. It is very hard to change any part of your game during a tournament run, so this break gives us time to make some enhancements. Finally, we’re working on our mental game. It’s hard to play your best if your head isn’t in the right place.””

UCSD has three of its five starters lined up for the next tournament, senior Alan Scheer and juniors Joe Dolby and Brian Duckworth. All three have been nationally ranked at one time during this season, and Scheer is currently ranked 134th in the nation among players of all divisions. The final two positions for the squad will be selected from the eight remaining players on the team, who will be chosen based on their performance in four qualifying rounds of golf.

“”We’ve already had one round so far,”” Wydra said. “”Our final round will be held on Torrey Pines South, one day after the Buick Invitational. We will be using the same pins and tees that the pros use, so the guys are very excited about that.””

The Tritons will resume play on Feb. 23 and Feb. 24, when they compete in the Family Motors Invitational at the Seven Oaks Country Club in Bakersfield, Calif.