The Bradley womens golf team finished second out of the 19-team field this past weekend at the Cardinal Classic. The Braves made history as they opened day one, posting a team score of 284, the lowest round in school history.
Day one was highlighted by senior Ally Scaccia, who fired a career-best 68 in her opening round at the par-72 Players Club.
Head coach Mary Swanson said she is pleased with how Scaccia continues to grow as a golfer.
Ally continues to play her heart out, and it was nice to see her build off her breakthrough at Illinois State, Swanson said. She is a physical talent, but its her mental ability that keeps her going. She has embraced the moment and realizes its all about the process and moving forward after each shot.
The Braves followed up their opening round success with a score of 292 in the second. Bradley finished the day second overall at an even-par of 576, seven shots behind eventual champion University of Indianapolis.
After their record-breaking opening day of play, the Braves carded a final round of 300. Bradleys total score of 876 gave them their lowest 54-hole score in school history, as well as a second place finish at the Classic. The Braves finished 13 shots behind Indianapolis.
All five Bradley players finished in the top 20 of the 100-person field. Scaccia placed in the top 10 for the second consecutive event. Junior Brooke Thompson also carded her best 54-hole score as a Brave and finished tied for 12th overall at 221.
Swanson said she is happy with the way Thompson has played this season.
Brooke has taken the next step this year, Swanson stated. Her consistent efforts are paying off, and shes improved each year.
The Braves finished well ahead of their Missouri Valley Conference foes and are poised to become a force to be reckoned with once the MVC Championship rolls around in April.
According to Swanson, this tournament showed the team they are able to compete with anyone.
The team will take a break from competition before teeing off on Oct. 2. at the Johnie Imes Invitational in Columbia, Mo.
