MOBILE, Ala. – The University of South Alabama women’s golf team returns home to familiar grounds as they host the 2007 USA Lady Jaguar Invitational at Azalea City Golf Course March 5-6. USA is back in Mobile after finishing tied for fourth at the Ann Rhoades Invitational in Birmingham, Ala. The fourth place finish broke a string of four straight victories dating back to the fall. The Lady Jags struggled during first round action shooting 316, but rebounded to fire a 300 on the second day. Junior Sara Marti finished in second place after losing a one round playoff.

“Obviously a home course is an advantage to us and they should be comfortable enough to play well,” said T.J. Jackson. “We struggled striking the ball in Birmingham, but we have been addressing that and other concerns this week in practice.”

Senior Elin Andersson continues to lead USA with a 74.64 stroke average, which ranks her sixth in the conference. Marti is shooting 75.43 (11), while senior Michelle Toth is firing 76.43 per round. Last week Toth finished tied for fourth place, which is her best finish of the season. Sophomore Darah Newell (77.93) and junior Sally Miller (77.50), round out the Lady Jag lineup at Azalea City. Junior Alexis Beard and sophomore Shirley Harvey will be participating as individuals.

“The top-three need to maintain what they are doing and continue getting the job done,” said T.J. Jackson. “This should also be a good way for Alexis and Shirley to get their confidence levels up and get them playing well.”

Last year at the 2006 Lady Jaguar Invitational, then junior Michelle Toth fired a two-under par 148 to take the medalist honors. Andersson finished in fourth place, while Marti finished in ninth.

The tournament begins at 8:30 with a shotgun start at Azalea City.

2007 USA Lady Jaguar Invitational Field
Alabama-Birmingham
Arkansas State
Austin Peay
Belmont
Centenary
Florida Atlantic
Jackson State
Jacksonville State
Lamar
Louisiana-Monroe
McNeese State
Mercer
Middle Tennessee State
Nicholls State
Samford
South Alabama
Southern Mississippi
Troy
Western Carolina
Winthrop