DES MOINES, Iowa – The Drake University women's golf team opens its fall season Sunday, Sept. 9 at the Redbird Invitational, hosted by Illinois State.
 
The 54-hole event features a 15-team field including, Akron, Ball State, Bowling Green, Bradley, Butler, Drake, Eastern Kentucky, Evansville, Illinois State, Illinois Wesleyan, Loyola, Northern Illinois, Ohio and Western Illinois.
 
Fourth-year head coach Rachael Pruett returns five players from last season including senior Grace Dunn, who led Drake in six tournaments. She posted a round average of 77.8 over 26 rounds and 11 rounds of 75 or less. Other returners include juniors Aimee Gerschke, Sigurlaug Jonsdottir and Reilly Krohe and sophomore Sam Paulak.
 
"I'm looking forward to seeing this team compete. Qualifying was intense and competitive, and I'm excited to see the ladies push each other to be their best," said Pruett. "I'm optimistic about what we can accomplish this season. Our focus remains on the process and what we can control. If we stay disciplined and give our very best effort, the results will take care of itself."
 
The team welcomes three newcomers, UNC Ashville transfer Erica Olberding and freshmen Kristen Giles and Haeri Lee.
 
Following the Redbird Invitational, Drake returns the state of Illinois for the Loyola Fall Invitational on Sept. 17-18.