LADY RAIDERS GOLF TEAM ACHIEVES FIRST NATIONAL RANKING IN PROGRAM HISTORY

DATE: July 15, 2024

Roane State's golf program achieved its first-ever national ranking following spring competition.

In just their third season of play, the Lady Raiders earned the top spot in the region and moved into 25th position on the national ranking compiled by Clippd, the platform that provides ranking services for NJCAA golf teams.

Head Coach Bo Harris said the success of the program can be attributed to the hard work and dedication of the talented student-athletes.

Lady Raider Whitney Russell achieved a personal best score of 84 at the Phoenix Invitational in Nashville this past season. When asked about the team's successful record and what has been most helpful to her as a player, she spoke of access to prominent local facilities like The Patch and Oak Ridge Country Club.

"Our practice routine and weekly strength and conditioning sessions have really helped us grow as athletes," Russell added.

Russell along with her four other Lady Raider teammates were freshman for the historic 2023-2024 season. The team included Georgia Cater from London, England, Megan Carlson from Colorado Springs, Sarah Whitehead from Heritage, Tennessee, and Sydney Queener from Midway, Tennessee.

Russell is the third player from last season to hail from within Tennessee, coming to Roane State from nearby Rockwood. She is returning for the 2024-2025 golf season, along with Cater and Queener.

"We have all been so thrilled to witness the rapid progress and success of these young athletes as they make their mark in the college ranks," Coach Harris said. "This is a testament to their talent, hard work, and the unwavering support they receive here at Roane State."

As their first event for the Fall 2024 season, the Lady Raiders will compete in the Indiana University East Fall Invitational beginning August 30 at Highland Lakes Golf Course.