The DU women’s golf team finished 13th overall in the 2011 NCAA West Regional Tournament this weekend, while University of California won the tournament with ease.
The Trojans shot a steady 2-over par (866) while Tennessee shot a 12-over par (876) and Virginia shot a 13-over par (887) to take 2nd and 3rd respectively.
“We needed a bit more from our other three, but just came up short. Playing in the top 24 at the national championship is always our purpose. We look forward to getting back [here] next year,” said head coach Sammie Chergo.
After winning their 8th consecutive Sun Belt Conference Tournament two weekends ago, the Pioneers shot a total 56-over par (920 strokes). The Pioneers 2011 NCAA West Regional appearance marked the 10th consecutive time the Pioneers qualified for the tournament.
Bright spots for the Pioneers included the play of junior Sarah Faller and senior leader Ellie Givens. Both golfers were recognized for their excellent play throughout the season as they were named to the 2011 Club Glove Sun Belt Conference Women’s Golf All-Conference Team.
Givens, who missed ample time during her senior campaign due to injury, finished her Regional performance tied for 37th overall as she shot a 12-over 228 through three rounds. Givens toughest round came on day two as she shot an 80, while shooting 74 in rounds one and three.
“Ellie has been our leader all year,” said Chergo. “She has battled through injuries and still was great for us.”
Faller finished tied for 18th overall shooting a 7-over par 223. Her strokes per round stayed consistent as she shot a 74 in round one, shooting a 73 in round two, and then finishing with a score of 76 in round three.
While the 13th place finish marks the end of the 2011 golf season, the team remains proud of the season they had. Freshman Tonje Daffinrud established herself especially late in the season. Daffinrud competed in 10 tournaments and averaged 76.33 strokes throughout the season.
“We started playing the best we’ve played all year long,” said Chergo. “The Sun Belt drastically improved this year and that really brought out the great pride our team played with for our University.”
Givens will graduate at the end of spring quarter, while juniors Anna Christenson, Lindsay Cone, Melissa Martin, and Faller look to step up as leaders, as the team looks to extend the SBC title streak to nine.
