The Emporia State University (ESU) women’s disc golf team, ranked second nationally, showcased their dominance with a decisive eight-stroke victory over sixth-ranked Clemson at the Florida Collegiate Classic.
This triumph not only reinforces their elite status but also sets a promising tone for the 2025 season.
Tournament Overview
The Florida Collegiate Classic, held from January 18 to 20, 2025, at the renowned Olympus Disc Golf Course in Brooksville, Florida, featured a competitive field of eight teams, including top contenders like ESU and Clemson. The event comprised both team and singles competitions, testing the versatility and skill of the participants.
Emporia State’s Performance
ESU’s formidable duo, Atlanta Krueger and Madeline Joiner, led the charge. After concluding Saturday’s team play in second place, they surged ahead during Sunday’s singles rounds. On Monday, both ESU and Clemson were the only teams to finish under par, with ESU delivering a field-best four-under-par performance.
Krueger and Joiner solidified their lead by securing birdies on three of four holes between #5 and #8, establishing an eight-stroke advantage. They maintained their momentum by parring the final four holes, culminating the tournament at an impressive 15-under-par.
Another ESU pair, Rebekah Thompson and Maya Ringgold delivered a commendable performance, finishing fourth with a cumulative score of nine-over-par over the three days, including a five-over-par on Monday. The team of Grace Watson and Avangelena Campbell secured an eighth-place finish, ending the tournament at 72-over-par.
Detailed Team Results
| Team Members | Final Score | Monday’s Score | Overall Placement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Atlanta Krueger & Madeline Joiner | -15 | -4 | 1st |
| Rebekah Thompson & Maya Ringgold | +9 | +5 | 4th |
| Grace Watson & Avangelena Campbell | +72 | +27 | 8th |
Upcoming Events
Building on this momentum, both the ESU women’s and the top-ranked men’s disc golf teams are set to host a Mid-American East Conference event on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at Peter Pan Park in Emporia, Kansas.
The first round is scheduled to commence at 9:00 a.m. Peter Pan Park, established in 2004, boasts a challenging 18-hole disc golf course designed by 2010 PDGA World Champion Eric McCabe, offering a mix of long and short holes that test players’ precision and strategy.
The ESU women’s disc golf team’s performance at the Florida Collegiate Classic exemplifies their dedication, skill, and competitive spirit. As they prepare for upcoming challenges, their recent success serves as a testament to their hard work and strategic prowess on the course.