BURNSVILLE, MN – University of Mary women's golf was picked to finish 9^th in the Northern Sun Preseason Coaches' Poll. For the second straight season, Annie Neva was named the team's Golfer to Watch.

Kyle Kasitz is in his first year coaching the program after serving as an assistant coach with Taylor University's men's and women's golf teams while playing for the men's team. The women's team was ranked as high as 18^th this past season and produced two NAIA All-Americans.

The Marauders will be returning four of five athletes who performed at the NSIC Championships, where the team placed 9^th. New to UMary this year will be a pair of freshmen who were top 10 at North Dakota's Class A Championships, Lola Huber (Bismarck, ND) and Lauren Graveline (Fargo, ND).

"We are excited about the potential of this year's team," said Kasitz. "We gained valuable experience last season that has helped build confidence for this season. The addition of two talented freshmen brings new energy and depth to the lineup."

Annie Neva had a strong sophomore campaign, finishing first at a pair of meets. She topped the leaderboard at the season-opening Tracy Lane Memorial Tournament and UJ Fall Invite. She earned NSIC Golfer of the Week honors after the Tracy Lane Memorial Tournament, becoming the first Marauder to do so since 2023.  

"Annie continues to lead our team, bringing a level of maturity and confidence in her play," said Kasitz. "She is a leader and represents our program greatly. I am excited to watch and coach her this fall."

The Marauders' season begins on the road at the Fall Brawl in Hudson, WI, on Sept. 14 and 15. UMary will host the United Printing Marauders Invitational on Sept. 28 and 29 from Hawktree Golf Club in Bismarck, ND.

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