Caitlin Dorsch ~ Copy Desk Chief
The University of Lynchburg Women’s Golf program has started their first year strong, already creating a legacy of team comradery and excellence. Third-year student and first-year golfer Lindsay Stanley insists, “Being a player on the first women’s golf team is so exciting. We’re making history and having fun while doing it.”
In the first four events in their campaign, the lady Hornets have already made a statement that they are ready for tough competition. They have improved as a team in each of their events. And, on Saturday, Oct. 5, they placed second out of nine teams competing in the event at the Greene Turtle Invitational at the Shenandoah Valley Golf Course in Front Royal, Virginia. First-year student and golfer, Lily Self received first place in the entire competition followed by graduate student and first-year golfer, Maddie Cody.
Cody remarked, “Coming from already playing three years of collegiate golf in Indiana, it’s incredibly exciting and rewarding to be a part of Lynchburg’s women’s golf history. As I previously said, I am from Indianapolis which is nine hours away. This has especially allowed me to create a close bond with my teammates and coaching staff. Our women’s team culture is pretty unique because we all have very different backgrounds socially and athletically. Our two freshman have been best friends and played golf together for years. However, one of our players is new to the game of golf. So, we are all very supportive and encouraging of her! I’m also in a cool position where I will be an assistant coach next season after I complete my final year of athletic eligibility.”
The culture of the team, founded on hard work and passion for the sport, has already started to help the team be successful in its early stages. The team is becoming a family according to Stanley. She says, “This program is like a family away from home because we spend a lot of time together, and we’re constantly bonding and getting closer. We support each other on and off of the course. The girls team culture is very light and fun. We all get along, crack jokes, and challenge each other on the course.”
The Lady Hornets will compete again on Saturday, Oct. 19 and Sunday, Oct. 20 at the Virginia State Golfers Association Intercollegiate Event at the James River Country Club in Newport News, Va.
