NIACC women in fourth after day 1 at regionals

ANKENY - The NIACC women's golf team sits in fourth place after the first round of the NJCAA Region XI tournament Friday at Otter Creek Golf Course.

The Lady Trojans shot a 366 and were led by sophomore Sydney Fullerton with an 89, which is good for 13th place.

"I was really impressed with Sydney coming back from a front nine 48 to card a 41," NIACC coach Chris Frenz said.

Also for the Lady Trojans, freshman Jordyn Barragy shot a season-best 91 (tied for 14th).

"Jordyn was really solid throughout the day and had a hiccup at 17 that cost  her, but she hit the ball well all day," Frenz said.

sophomore Morgan Luecht shot a season-best 92 (tied for 17th) and sophomore Ashley Alert shot a 94 (tied for 20th).

"Morgan and Ashley struggled on teh front but I always love their fight and they finished the round strong to give them a good feeling going into (Saturday)," Frenz said.

 Iowa Western is the first day leader with a 326. Iowa Lakes is in second with a 342 and DMACC is in third with a 364.

NIACC is two shots out of third heading into the second round of 72-hole tournament.

"It was not a bad day for the Trojans because we have ourselves in position to make a strong move (Saturday)," Frenz said. "With a 72-hole tournament, it's all about positioning in the early rounds."

"None of them are out of the race to go to the national tournament."

Southwestern's Bianca Findlay and Iowa Western's Lisa Lied share the first-day lead with opening rounds 78.

The second round of the four-round tournament is set for Saturday at Otter Creek. Play begins at 10 a.m. on Saturday.

The final two rounds of the regional tournament are April 26-27, also at Otter Creek.

The top team and top 10 individuals not on the winning team qualify for the NJCAA Division I national tournament May 13-16 in Daytona Beach, Fla.