VIDEO: Jessica Shepley Interview
ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. – The Carson-Newman women's golf team kicks off its fall season on Monday at the Spring Kickoff at The Golf Club at South Hampton in St. Augustine, Florida.
While dealing with roadblocks early in the semester, head coach Jessica Shepley believes her squad has navigated the challenges to prepare themselves for the first event of the spring season.
"At the beginning of the semester, we got that snow, so we had a little delay," Shepley said. "But the last couple of weeks have been great. It's been beautiful here, so we've gotten out and done a lot of short-game work… I've been talking to them about what they feel good about and how we can maintain, and the areas they're not as confident in, we've been spending a little more time in those areas."
Shepley and the Eagles took off for St. Augustine on Friday afternoon, hoping to get a feel for an unfamiliar course.
"The biggest reason I wanted to get down there a day early is for them to see the green," Shepley said. "To putt, chip, and get used to that Bermuda grass… The grass will be slightly different, so I just want them to get a bunch of reps and feel good about it."
With the extra day of practice, the Eagles will look to put their best foot forward and build on what was a solid end to the fall season, finishing 2nd as a team with Hannah Holland taking first place at the Music City Invitational.
"What we've talked about with the girls is a lot of expectation on their attitude and maturity," Shepley said. "They're all very talented and can compete with anyone in this division, but we need to learn how to let things go and build on the good stuff happening, so that will continue to be a conversation."
The Eagles will look to start their spring season on the right foot under their first-year head coach on Monday and Tuesday in St. Augustine, Florida.
