2022 Preview: Women’s Golf Led By Veterans
August 24, 2022 at 11:05 p.m.
2022 Preview: Women’s Golf Led By Veterans
By Grant Cook-
“I’m always excited for the beginning of the year, but this year especially so,” said Grace head coach Denny Duncan. “Last year was a difficult one because of injuries, so staying healthy and playing to our potential is foremost on our mind as we begin the new season. We have a veteran roster filled with excellent players and amazing people, and they are a blessing to be around.”
The Lady Lancers return nine golfers from last year’s squad, which finished as runner-up in the 2021 NCCAA national tournament.
Of Grace’s returners, four of them saw significant playing time in the Lady Lancers’ top five. “Returning four starters is exciting in and of itself,” added Duncan. “To return four players who have all won tournaments is especially exciting.”
Headlining the returning class is Carolyn Pacocha and Lucy Young, who have been steady stalwarts since their freshman seasons. The duo have helped propel Grace to three consecutive podium finishes at the NCCAA national tournament, including the team’s first national title in 2019.
“Carolyn is our most consistent player and acts like assistant coach, and Lucy has been our number one player since her first year.” Duncan commented on the two seniors.
After transferring to Grace last season, Summer Stillson had a breakout year for the Lady Lancers. She won three tournaments in her first year with Grace. “Stillson was one of our best players last spring. She’s had a terrific summer, and we are looking forward to tremendous things from her this fall.”
The final of the returning four starters is Grace May. May will be back for her second season of collegiate action after a stellar first year. “May is a natural leader and has the potential to become one of the premier players in our conference,” said Duncan.
One of the special focuses for Duncan this fall will be seeing who helps fill the void left by the two graduating seniors from last year’s class.
“We need someone to step into the fifth spot and make an impact,” Duncan noted. “Our veteran players will need to take advantage of this opportunity and consistently play to their potential.”
Sydney Cesare, Abby Slabaugh, Abigail Fishel, Britney Klotz and Hannah Godfrey all have experience playing in high pressure situations and will rely on their experience to help push for the No. 5 spot.
Brette Hanavan is a new face to the Lady Lancers this season, and Duncan sees her potentially pushing for a starting spot. Grace also brings in Raigan King as a part of the 2022 recruiting class.
“Our goals for the season will focus on improvement and consistency. The NCCAA tournament is always a special focus for us as well as the Crossroads League Championship. Playing in the NAIA national championship remains our ultimate challenge,” said Duncan.
The Lady Lancers will tee off their season on Friday at Trine.
“I’m always excited for the beginning of the year, but this year especially so,” said Grace head coach Denny Duncan. “Last year was a difficult one because of injuries, so staying healthy and playing to our potential is foremost on our mind as we begin the new season. We have a veteran roster filled with excellent players and amazing people, and they are a blessing to be around.”
The Lady Lancers return nine golfers from last year’s squad, which finished as runner-up in the 2021 NCCAA national tournament.
Of Grace’s returners, four of them saw significant playing time in the Lady Lancers’ top five. “Returning four starters is exciting in and of itself,” added Duncan. “To return four players who have all won tournaments is especially exciting.”
Headlining the returning class is Carolyn Pacocha and Lucy Young, who have been steady stalwarts since their freshman seasons. The duo have helped propel Grace to three consecutive podium finishes at the NCCAA national tournament, including the team’s first national title in 2019.
“Carolyn is our most consistent player and acts like assistant coach, and Lucy has been our number one player since her first year.” Duncan commented on the two seniors.
After transferring to Grace last season, Summer Stillson had a breakout year for the Lady Lancers. She won three tournaments in her first year with Grace. “Stillson was one of our best players last spring. She’s had a terrific summer, and we are looking forward to tremendous things from her this fall.”
The final of the returning four starters is Grace May. May will be back for her second season of collegiate action after a stellar first year. “May is a natural leader and has the potential to become one of the premier players in our conference,” said Duncan.
One of the special focuses for Duncan this fall will be seeing who helps fill the void left by the two graduating seniors from last year’s class.
“We need someone to step into the fifth spot and make an impact,” Duncan noted. “Our veteran players will need to take advantage of this opportunity and consistently play to their potential.”
Sydney Cesare, Abby Slabaugh, Abigail Fishel, Britney Klotz and Hannah Godfrey all have experience playing in high pressure situations and will rely on their experience to help push for the No. 5 spot.
Brette Hanavan is a new face to the Lady Lancers this season, and Duncan sees her potentially pushing for a starting spot. Grace also brings in Raigan King as a part of the 2022 recruiting class.
“Our goals for the season will focus on improvement and consistency. The NCCAA tournament is always a special focus for us as well as the Crossroads League Championship. Playing in the NAIA national championship remains our ultimate challenge,” said Duncan.
The Lady Lancers will tee off their season on Friday at Trine.
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