University Star

They have traveled out of state seven times already. The eighth will be the Bobcats’ most important yet.

The Texas State women’s golf team will head to Kinder, La. April 20 to 22 to compete in the Southland Conference Championship tournament.

Coach Mike Akers said the team has an advantage, as it has already played in Louisiana before.

“Yes, we did play at this golf course in February,” Akers said. “That was done intentionally so we would get a good look at the golf course.”

The Bobcats tied for first in the opening round at 297, an all-time school record, in their last tournament, the Ryder Canes & Cardinal Classic. The team won the Claud Jacobs Intercollegiate March 10 in Victoria.

Akers said he believes any of his players could win the individual title at the championship and they are all gunning for a top-10 finish.

His players in the lineup will be Adin Stromgren, undecided health professions sophomore, Caitlin Bliss, health and wellness promotion sophomore, Gabby De Reuck, undecided freshman, Amy Glazier, marketing junior, and Sydney Liles, applied arts and sciences senior.

Liles said the team is preparing for a tough tournament.

“We are going into this tournament expecting a win and continuing (our) season,” Liles said. “Even though we are playing for regions, we are not overlooking this conference. It is going to be a hard fought battle but I truly believe we will come out on top.”

Akers said he is concerned the team might not play to its potential. He said Texas State has the best women’s golf program in the SLC, but the team must take care of business and not expect to only show up and win.

Akers said his players should not be hesitant about the competition.

“Our players are not nervous,” Akers said. “There is no reason for us to be nervous. This is why I scheduled very difficult tournaments throughout the year. We have been competing against the Big 12, Big 10 teams all year.”

Liles said the short game and greens might be the deciding factor for the team’s results.

“I think this tournament is going to be won on the putting green,” Liles said. “Last time we played this course, the wind felt like 40 mph, so short game is going to be a big factor. Saving pars and taking advantage of birdie opportunities (are other factors).”

Liles said this tournament will be her final one.

“It is a little bittersweet knowing it could all be over next week,” Liles said. “I still haven’t really wrapped my head around it yet.”