Wrapping up their fall season, the University of Dallas golf teams traveled to San Antonio, to play at the Quarry Golf Course (par 71 course). Hosted by Trinity University, the tournament was a preview for the coaches and the players for their SCAC opponents.
Returning player Tiffany Han continued to play well and carded a +17 (88) on the first day of the tournament. Han tied for 16th overall in individual standings. Following her are her teammates Kaylei Richardson with a 97, Claire Kirby with a 102 and Emma Christensen with a 103.
UD senior Bridget Burch, who recently joined the team to compete collegiately in golf, also played on the first day. Unfortunately, due to the steep, hilly back nine, Burch twisted her ankle with only a couple holes left to finish.
“Coach and I both thought it would be better if I rested my ankle so I did not further my injury,” said Burch. Coach Garrett Smith had a similar incident during his golf career as well. He advised Burch not to keep playing for the sake of her recovery.
The team remained optimistic going into day two of the tournament. Burch decided to not pursue the tournament on the second day in order to rest her ankle.
Although this is the last tournament of the season, the team was not able to defeat the challenges. After playing five holes, Han was not feeling well.
“I really did not want to stop playing. I knew I could play but I couldn’t because of something I ate. It could have been avoidable” said Han. “I was very frustrated with myself for not being cautious with what I ate.”
Han had to withdraw from the tournament due to food poisoning. She felt better after Coach Megan Thothong helped her to the clubhouse to rest. “I had to watch the rest of the tournament feeling completely fine,” said Han. “It was definitely a big mental challenge for me.”
The women’s team, despite the challenges they had to face, finished seventh, ahead of their SCAC opponent Centenary College. Coach Smith is optimistic that the spring season will be less challenging.
Competing in their last tournament in the fall season, the men’s golf team also competed in the Alamo City Classic in San Antonio.
Freshman Jacob Trevino led the Crusaders with a 150 overall (76-74). He tied for 17th. Emilio Montalvo also carded a 74 his second day. Senior Erik Hamm had a 154 total. Both Montalvo and Hamm had the most birdies for UD in the tournament. Senior Jacob Wade shot a 152 overall, placing UD in a tie for seventh place.
The men’s team has concluded their fall season. They will pick up their spring season in Blanco, TX at the SCAC preview at the Vaaler Creek golf course.
