Women's Golf Wins Grand Canyon Fall Invitational
September 26, 2006

For the women's golf team to top its fourth-place finish at last spring's National Championships, the 2006-2007 season would have to be one of the program's best ever. After the Grand Canyon Fall Invitational, there is legitimate reason to think it will be.

In their first tournament of the season, the Lady Cougars defeated the competition by a comfortable margin, capturing both the team and individual titles. The latter was thanks to senior Jennell French, who posted a two-round total of 146 (73 - 73) to win the event outright. French is expected to be a standout for the squad this year, and she could not have kicked off the season in a better way.

Other members of the Cougar team stepped up as well. Sophomore Ellyse Siu showed tremendous improvement over her freshman year, finishing in fourth with a two-round total of 150 (76 - 74). Senior Christina Austin finished in a tie for 12th, shooting 156 (79 - 77). Right behind her was Junior Carly Ludwig, with a total of 157 (80 - 77). Danielle Pearce also participated, shooting 175 (88 - 87).

After the first day of the event, the Lady Cougars held a small lead, posting a team score of 308. On day two, the squad secured the victory with a terrific score of 301. CSUSM's cumulative total of 609 was 11 shots clear of the rest of the field. Southern Nazarene took second with a score of 620, and St. Mary's took third, shooting 623.

Following the victory, Head Coach Fred Hanover was thrilled with the team's performance, but knows there may be even better performances ahead.

"They did fantastic," said Hanover. "But I don't think this is the best they can do. I think they'll be really special."