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The recent Golf World’s College Coaches’ Poll ranks DU’s women’s golf No. 5 in the nation.

Even though the program lost three seniors, four players are returning and four freshmen were added.  The makeup of this new team is completely different, but this doesn’t bother head coach Sammie Chergo.

“It’s a refreshing start,” Chergo said. “We have excellent veteran leadership from seniors like Stephanie Sherlock and I’m excited for the enthusiasm I’ve seen from the freshmen. They are going to add a lot of energy to an already energized team.”

Sherlock and freshman Kimberly Kim were named No. 6 and No. 10 in Golf World’s Top 50 Female Players to Watch.

“It’s a completely different team compared to my first three years. This past week has been a lot of fun just getting to know everyone and practicing and playing together,” Sherlock said. “All four [freshmen] are very good and will help our team to improve. I feel like we have a great team this year and will be in the running for the NCAA championship come next spring.”

Last season, Denver women’s golf won the first NCAA regional title and finished fifth at the NCAA championships.

“We always gear our season to be playing our best in April and May and this year we have the most talent we’ve ever had,” said Chergo.

Sherlock also earned All-American honors by leading her team in scoring average with a 73.38 and had four top-10 finishes. The expectations for the season may have been heightened by the rankings, but in golf, higher expectations are always a good thing, especially to the individual, said Sherlock.

“Expectations are tough. I think the only thing I expect of myself is to have fun and work hard.  Golf is a funny game where anything can happen,” said Sherlock.