Kent State women win season-opening Dick McGuire Invite

For Kent State, it’s a story of new coach but same winning ways. Under new coach Lisa Strom, the Golden Flashes defended their title at the season-opening Dick McGuire Invitational on Tuesday. They finished seven shots ahead of runner-up Pepperdine.

"What a way to start the season," said head coach Lisa Strom. "This crew got off to a fast start this morning and never looked back. I'm so proud of the seniors on how they played and going back-to-back team champions is no easy task."

Kent State had three golfers finish in the top-10 with Senior Karoline Stormo highlighting the Flashes' lineup.

Freshman Caley McGinty finished tied for fourth in her first-collegiate tournament with a 6-under par 210 score (72-69-69). McGinty carded a 3-under 69 in the third round with five birdies. Senior Pimnipa Panthong fired a 2-under par 70 in the final round and finished the tournament in sixth at 5-under 211.

"Having Caley step right into the lineup and make a statement is huge for her confidence and our team."

For Kent State, the final round was the difference maker. They were able to stay ahead of Pepperdine with a 10-under 278 team score.

Behind the Waves, Iowa State and Ole Miss tied for third at 2 under. San Diego State rounded out the top 5 at 1 under.

"Winning doesn't come east in college golf,” Strom said. “We are going to enjoy this one for a couple of days and get back to work as we prepare for the Mercedes-Benz."

Information from Kent State Athletics used in this report