CHAMPAIGN, Ill. - After two weeks away from competition, the Fighting Illini women's golf team will head south to play in the 14th annual Cardinal Cup, hosted by Louisville. The two-day event is slated for Oct. 21-22, at the University of Louisville Golf Club (par 72, 6,250 yards) in Simpsonville, Kentucky. 

"In the past, weather has played a factor in this tournament," head coach Renee Slone said. "The forecast is calling for warmer temperatures than we have seen in past years and perhaps less wind. The course provides a great test with large greens and healthy rough, which will aid in our preparation for the postseason."

A year ago, the Illini were paced by Grace Park, who finished with a 222 (+6) and helped the team to a fourth place finish in the event. Park also tied for sixth individually.

Making the trip for the Orange and Blue will be Ali Morallos, Dana Gattone, Bing Singhsumalee, Tristyn Nowlin and Chayanid Prapassarangkul. Senior Grace Park will also be competing as an individual. 

The tournament field is comprised of 14 schools, including seven teams currently ranked in Golfstat's top 50. No. 15 Illinois will face off against No. 16 Kent State, No. 36 Wisconsin, No. 37 Kentucky, No. 41 Louisville, No. 46 East Carolina and No. 50 Memphis. Rounding out the field are Virginia Tech, Richmond, Toledo, Charlotte, Murray State, Columbia and Ball State. 

"We want to finish the fall season strong," Slone said. "We are going to need continued commitment, focus, positivity and energy. We also need to keep doing the little things on a daily basis that make a significant impact." 

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