Hello Illini Nation!

This is Isabel Sy here to share the Illinois women's golf team's experiences at our first two tournaments of the 2022-2023 season! 

Our first tournament of the fall season was the Cougar Classic at Yeamans Hall Club.  Yeamans Hall was built in 1925 and is a Top 100 course in the U.S.  The secluded and peaceful setting took us back in time to another era.

The course had firm playing conditions with many elevated greens that had false fronts. This was our first year playing in this event so the practice round was vital in order to discuss our team and individual strategies. During the first day, the team played two rounds for a total of 36 holes. Lexanne Halama started off strong with a four-under 67 during the first round. Then during the second round, Alise Knudson used the knowledge she gained from the first round and shot a one-under 70. Crystal Wang ended the tournament on a great note with a score of 68, three-under par. Her tie for 13th place was her fourth-straight Top-15 finish. We enjoyed and appreciated the hospitality shown us by the host team, College of Charleston, and Yeamans Hall Club. The first tournament of the season was a great learning experience for the whole team and helped us prepare for the next tournament.

The Schooner Classic at the Belmar Golf Club was hosted by the University of Oklahoma. We always enjoy coming to this tournament because of the numerous amazing events they have. The practice round was very unique because we were involved in a college-amateur event where some members of the team played with other amateurs. Crystal, Lexanne and I were fortunate to play with three girls named Evyn, Harlow and Kylie in this event. We had lots of fun getting to know each other and playing great golf.

During the first day, the conditions were perfect with temperatures in the 80s and a small breeze. Crystal capitalized on the opportunity and shot an astounding round of 64. During the second round, conditions were different with stronger winds of about 15 to 25 mph. Despite the more challenging conditions, Crystal and I left ourselves in good positions in the Top 5. We were also so glad to see Illini golf alum Laurin Kanda Leung and her family come out to support the team. The last day was very comparable to the first day with minimal wind. Crystal shot a low round of 68 to finish in the top 5. We again took a lot of information away about our games and seeing what areas we can improve on in preparation for the rest of the season.

Our next tournament will be our home tournament, the Illini Women's Invitational at Medinah Country Club from October 11th-12th. Looking forward to seeing you there!

Go Fighting Illini!