10/20/2009

Despite not winning its district and only qualifying four golfers, Westminster has played itself into contention at the Class 1 girls state tournament at Sedalia Country Club.

After Monday's first round, the Wildcats find themselves sitting tied for second with Pembroke Hill with a 374, just 11 strokes behind Savannah's 363.

"We knew all along we could play like that," said Westminster coach Steve Bradley, who credited the book "Golf's Sacred Journey" for giving him some inspirational advice to pass along. "I used one of the quotes from the book about how you have to play the game in front of the ball. You have to be thinking about your next shot and not worry about what already happened."

Westminster senior Kristin Kilpatrick, a three-time state medalist, is tied for third after an opening 81 with three birdies.

"I had really good drives, and anything 100 yards in I was getting within 10-15 feet of the hole," Kilpatrick said.

Kilpatrick is playing with a team for the first time since her freshman season, but she said that will not add any pressure during the second round.

"I'll focus on every shot and try not to have stupid errors," Kilpatrick said. "I'm playing with Kate Gallagher (of Savannah), who is one up on me, and I'll try to stay even with her."

Westminster freshman Brooke Cusumano carded an opening-round 93 on the par-72 course in windy conditions. Margaret Moore shot a 99, and Hillary Franz had a 101.

Haelena Schwemmer of Barat Academy has the first-day lead by 2 strokes after shooting a 78.

"I just kept it in play," said Schwemmer, who had one birdie. "I'm usually consistent with my game."

Schwemmer finished in fourth place last year, but she admitted there will be a little more pressure playing with the lead. "I told her they're the ones that have to work hard because they have to come after you," Barat Academy coach Maria Palozola said.

Villa Duchesne is sitting in fifth with a first-round score of 380. Christina Russon led the squad with an 89. Caroline Rouse of MICDS is tied for eighth at 84.