Hello Illini Nation!

We just returned home from our training trip down in Florida. It was an incredible experience to be able to play at some amazing courses such as Twin Eagles and Innisbrook Golf Resort. With some chilly temperatures back home, it was great to have the opportunity to play in some warmer weather!

After arriving late Friday night, the team split up to stay with our host families who generously opened up their homes for us to stay at. We started the trip off Saturday by playing Talon, one of the courses at Twin Eagles Club. Every team member had the opportunity to play with our Naples Illini supporters during the round. With Saturday being the best day of weather, we were able to utilize the practice facilities to work on our games and expose some areas of weakness to improve upon before the start of the spring season. Dinner was hosted by the Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Filler, one of the biggest supporters of the women's golf program. It was a great opportunity to talk with some of our alumni and share our campus experiences.

Day two provided a great challenge for the team with 20-30 mph winds swirling on Twin Eagles' most difficult course, The Eagle. With tough conditions, it provided great practice for some of the possible future obstacles we may face this season. Following the round, we enjoyed dinner at the club and conversed with some of the members and our host families.

On our final day, we woke up bright and early to head over to Tampa's Innisbrook Golf Resort. With a different style of course than Twin Eagles, it allowed us to grow as players and continue to improve on different aspects of our game. We rounded out the trip with a reception hosted by U of I graduate and Innisbrook Golf Resort owner, Sheila Johnson. We were able to do a question and answer session for the Illini alumni attending and vocalize our passion for the sport and University.

The Illini women's golf team had a great trip down in Florida and were extremely grateful for the opportunity to play some challenging courses and meet some incredible Illini fans who have supported us through our journey. Stay updated on our upcoming spring season and Go Illini!

Till next time,

Sarah Hauenstein

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