Over the break, women’s golf traveled to Rio Verde, Ariz., and to Las Vegas to compete. The Huskies finished strong in both tournaments, finishing 12 out of 17 at the Rio Verde Invitational and sixth out of 13 at the Lady Bison Spring Classic.

The Huskies played consistently at the Rio Verde Invitational as they shot a 307 in the first round and a 311 in the second, finishing the tournament with a final score of 618. Junior Jenny Niemiec and senior Allie Parthie led the team in scoring, both finishing tied for 22 with a score of 152 in the tournament. For Niemiec, it was the start of a strong week, while Parthie was continuing the success she has had throughout the season.

The Huskies also saw strong play from sophomore Taylor Ellett and freshman Connie Ellett. Taylor Ellett finished the tournament with posting a score of 159, while Connie Ellett finished right behind her with a score of 160.

The strong play continued at the Lady Bison Spring Classic in Las Vegas. NIU finished sixth after a second-round surge. The Huskies shot a 320 the first day but trimmed 16 strokes off their first round total to finish with a total score of 624 for the tournament.

Niemiec continued her strong play in Vegas. After shooting a first-round 83 she rebounded with a second-round low of 71.

Coach Kim Kester said was happy with the junior’s play.

“She made a ton of birdies the second round. Her short game was outstanding,” Kester said. “Just overall, her entire game was spot on.”

Kester was also pleased with how the Huskies responded after a tough first round of golf.

“Our first round was a little harder than we wanted, but they rebounded extremely well in the second round with a 304, which is our lowest score all year,” Kester said.

Parthie and Connie Ellett fared well in Vegas, as well. Both golfers tied for 20th after scoring a 156. Connie Ellett’s final round score of 74 was a career-low for her, while Parthie struggled in the final round shooting an 81.

The Huskies also saw strong performances from Taylor Ellett and sophomore Casey LaBarbera. Taylor Ellett also shot a career-low in the final round of play, shooting a 78 to finish 30th with a score of 158. LaBarbera finished 61st with a final score of 171.

After a successful week of golf the Huskies will look to continue their success at the Saluki Invitational in Carbondale on March 24. Moving forward, Kester hopes to see the team continue to shoot in the 70’s.