The ULM women’s golf team tied for 12th place after three competitive rounds at the 2024 Illini Invitational. 

After finishing second at the UAB Hoover Invitational, the Warhawks faced tough competition at Medinah Country Club. Led by standout performances from junior Johanna Sjursen and freshman Isabel Mas Pitarch, ULM fought hard against stronger competitors.

The Warhawks began the tournament on Monday, with Sjursen scoring 70 (-2) in her first round. Sjursen ‘s momentum continued in the second round, and she posted a 68 (-4), her best round of the season. Sophomore Daniela Campillo praised Sjursen’s consistent play, noting her steady mindset and positive impact on the team.

“She is a really good player. She has a really good mindset on the course,” Campillo said. “As a teammate, she’s always helping us when we need it.”

Mas Pitarch also made her mark, recording her collegiate-best round of 70 (-2) during Monday’s second round. She completed the tournament at an even par, finishing with a total score of 216.

On Tuesday, the Warhawks posted a final team score of 299. ULM tied with Pepperdine with a cumulative score of 876 (+12). Ole Miss claimed the title at -30, with Houston and Auburn rounding out the top three. 

In addition to Sjursen and Mas Pitarch, Campillo (+9), junior Anna Andrysova (+10) and freshman Tessa Ion (+20) contributed to ULM’s efforts. Sjursen’s final score of 212 (-4) secured her a tie for 17th place.

Reflecting on the team’s overall performance, Mas Pitarch shared her thoughts on competing against top-tier teams. 

“We played against the best teams in the country,” Pitarch said. “Our expectations were higher, so obviously, we’re a little bit disappointed. But in the end, we took the best out of it and now know what to work on to play our best next time.”

Looking ahead, Sjursen emphasized the team’s determination to finish strong. 

“Our goals for the season are to play our best golf, and hopefully, we can pick up a win as well,” Sjursen said.