May 6, 2002

USF women's golf is heading back to the post season for the second consecutive year under the direction of head coach Sarah Range. The Lady Dons will compete at the 2002 NCAA West Regional held at Stanford Golf Course, hosted by the Stanford Cardinal. San Francisco enters the event as the #12 seed and have their sights set on advancing to nationals, hosted by the University of Washington.

Range believes her team is capable of making a splash this season at the NCAA regionals.

"We had a good year, but we never played up to our full potential. I feel we still have the ability to play even better in the NCAA's. Mariko Shimozaki and Susie Laing have pulled us along all year long. We shot a 296 at the BYU Dixie Classic but we had to count an 84. If we can all play well we have a great opportunity for success," Range stated.

San Francisco makes the second appearance in the post season in program history after competing in the NCAA Central Regional last season, hosted by Purdue. Range believes her young team has an opportunity to take the next step.

"I definitely think that we have to score 900 to make it to nationals. Our season round average is 304 and we have been there consistently," Range continued.

Playing in the West will be an advantage according to Range.

"I definitely think the West is the toughest region with all the Pac-10 teams here, but my team loves this golf course. They've all played the course and several have played tournaments on it. It's a great golf course. You can't ask for a better challenge," Range said. "You have to have your complete game. I think that will benefit us."

"I think they will do great. Susie and Mariko have a definite chance of qualifying for nationals as individuals, but both are focused on propelling the team to Washington," Range commented.

Range is pleased with her team's preparations for regionals.

Jordan Auten - "Jordan Auten is coming off a great conference tournament. It's great to see her playing her best golf as we head into the postseason."

Lisa Chen - "Lisa is so close right now. She's worked so hard. She just has to put it together. It's there and I am confident this will be the time when she rises to the challenge."

Lyndsey Devenish - "After a wrist injury, she is excited and ready for the challenge of returning to the postseason. She's the only one on our team to play in nationals (2000 Division II National Tournament) and should help us take the next step."

Susie Laing - "Susie is an All-American candidate. If she finishes strong she will lock it up. She loves the Stanfor Golf Course and I look for great things from her once again."

Mariko Shimozaki - Mariko just plugs away. She'll definitely be ready to compete. She putts extremely well and that will help on this golf course