Oct. 31, 2006
PEORIA, Ill. -
Sophomore Marci Hill led the Illinois State women's golf team in the final 18 holes firing 77 for a two-round total of 156 and finished tied for seventh while helping the Redbirds secure a fourth-place finish at WeaverRidge Golf Club.
The `Birds shot a two-round total of 635 (316, 319) and were just one shot away from a top-three finish.
Assistant coach Pina Genitle hoped the team could improve upon yesterday's score with strong team play.
"We had the intention of going out there today and moving up in the rankings," said Gentile.
Senior Hilary Anderson fired two consistent rounds for a total of 154 (77, 77) and tied for third individually. Sophomore Tiffany Hockensmith shot 160 (77, 83) and finished tied for 17th while freshman Britt Knutson shot 165 (82, 83) and placed 27th. Freshman Stacey Miller shot 168 (85, 83) and tied with senior Olivia Campos (64, 64) for 33rd. Freshman Christine Larson played individually and shot 164 (83, 81) and tied for 24th.
"We had a fair shot to move up," said Gentile. "We just lacked a couple additional low scores."
Southern Illinois clinched the victory firing a 622 (310, 312) and were led by players Kelly Gerlach and Christine Zoerlein who fired 153 and tied for first-place individually, just one shot ahead of Anderson. Missouri State finished five shots back with 627 (312, 315). Host Bradley shot 634 (313, 321) and finished in third. Northern Iowa finished right behind ISU with 642 (324, 318) while Wichita State (643) placed sixth. Indiana State shot 663 (326, 337) in seventh followed by Drake (671) and Creighton (678).
Gentile felt this tournament was a good way to end the fall season.
"We didn't finish the way we would have liked to," said Gentile. "However, looking back over the season we have a lot of positives."
The team plans to use the off season to work on areas they need to improve in.
"We have a great group and there is a lot to be learned as we head into the off season," said Gentile. "We are very optimistic as we look into the future and upcoming spring season."
The Redbirds first spring tournament will take place February 26-27 at the Fighting Camel Spring Classic at Keith Hills Country Club in Buies Creek, N.C.
