THIS WEEK — The women’s golf team travels to Parrish, FL to compete in the Central District Invitational. Competition begins Monday and will conclude Tuesday.
LINEUP — Competing for the Hawkeyes are senior Laura Holmes, juniors Liz Bennett and Shannon Fleming, and freshmen Virginie Bonfils and Karla Murra.
SEASON OUTLOOK — The Hawkeyes had a strong fall season. They posted strong performances in the Redbird Classic (4th) and Marilyn Smith Sunflower Invitational (8th). Iowa was led by Junior Liz Bennett who led the team in rounds played (14) and scoring average (77.6). Freshman Virginie Bonfils came on strong for the Hawkeyes posting the lowest single round in the fall (70) and also tying Bennett for most rounds played (14). Iowa looks to continue its success this spring. The Hawkeyes look to have a difficult schedule this year. It’s highlighted by a finish at the Big Ten Championships at Ohio State. Iowa is hoping to improve on its 10th place finish in last year’s competition.
QUOTING CARNEY — “The team has made good progress with skills improvement since the completion of the 2003 fall season. They have worked hard on conditioning and on their golf skills. Yesterday we were able to get outside to hit balls which boosts their confidence. I hope to see more consistency in scoring this spring. The winter work has put us in a position to improve. The competition in the Central District Invitational in Florida will be very stiff but that is what we will face in most of our spring competitions. I think we all look forward to getting back on the golf course. Everyone is upbeat at practice and feeling ready to go. We have chosen our top competitors from the fall season to compete in this tournament and I am excited because they are ready to compete again.”
HEAD WOMEN’S COACH Bobbe Carney — Coach Carney is in her second year as coach of the Hawkeyes. Her resume is highlighted, most notably, by being named LPGA Midwest Section Coach of the Year in 1989. In 2001, she was named a Top 50 Instructor by Golf For Women magazine.