South Dakota, rich in natural beauty and a passion for sports, proudly opens its 2026-27 women’s golf season at the prestigious NDSU Invitational held at the Oxbow Country Club in Fargo, North Dakota. This marks the fourth consecutive year that the Coyotes have inaugurated their campaign at this venue, demonstrating the growing prominence of golf among South Dakotans and highlighting the prowess of its local talent.
The NDSU Invitational, a noteworthy event on the competitive collegiate golf calendar, draws in teams from South Dakota, the University of North Dakota, and hosts North Dakota State. The tournament promises an exciting 36-hole meet, spread across a two-day extravaganza, challenging participants with its par-excellence gameplay and pristine course conditions.
Last year, the Coyotes excelled by clinching the second place with a commendable team score of 604 (+28). This was their best finish over the last three seasons, outshining previous performances, and setting a high standard of competitive spirit prevalent in South Dakota sports culture.
The Oxbow Country Club, where the invitational unfolds, is a championship-level course spanning 7,323 yards. Originally opened in 1975 and redesigned by the esteemed Robert Trent Jones Jr. in 2019, the course offers a challenging layout that tests the best of skills and strategies.
Coach Brett Bennett, a University of South Dakota alumnus, embarks on his ninth season steering the South Dakota women’s golf team. His dedication and expertise have crucially shaped a strong roster laden with potential and promise. The team comprises an impressive lineup of talented players, including seniors Ella Greenberg, Avery O’Donnell, and Ava Schroeder, alongside junior Eva Greenberg, sophomore Lindsey Lund, and the enthusiastic freshmen trio of Savannah Cagle, KayLynn Jorgensen, and Siena Stovall.
The South Dakota players are keen to showcase their golfing prowess at Fargo, especially with ideal weather conditions forecasted. Temperatures on the first day may soar to 90 degrees with bright sunshine, while the second day promises a cooler clime at 77 degrees, ensuring optimal playing conditions.
All nine Yotes will compete at this year’s event, with a subset of three participating as individuals, underscoring the depth and versatility of the team. Their performance here is not just about individual glory but a collective representation of South Dakota’s sports ambitions and culture.
Moreover, the rolling greens of Oxbow align perfectly with South Dakota’s rugged landscapes, mirroring the state’s spirit of adventure and endurance. Golf is increasingly seen as a focal point for both athletic and economic engagement within the state, bringing together community and boosting tourism.
As South Dakota’s women’s golf team tees off, they carry the hopes and cheers of their home state, motivated by the support of local fans who value dedication and achievement. The University of South Dakota and its athletic pursuits play a pivotal role in harnessing local talent and setting benchmarks in collegiate sports.
For real-time updates and live scoring, you can follow the Coyotes at the following live scoring link. Stay connected with South Dakota Athletics through their Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram for more behind-the-scenes content and updates about your favorite teams.
As South Dakota continues to harmonize its natural beauty with athletic endeavors, the women’s golf team stands as a testament to dedication, emerging as ambassadors for the state’s rich sporting ethos. Contributing to both legacy and future prospects, the Coyotes are all set to make an indelible mark this golf season and for many to come.
Eva Greenberg
The Coyotes, with their formidable preparation and competitive spirit, are eagerly anticipating the first tee off at Oxbow, carrying forward the community spirit and sporting legacy distinctive to South Dakota.
Ava Schroeder
Stay tuned for more updates as we keep an eye on the scores and support our favorite players on this exciting golfing journey. #GoYotes #WeAreSouthDakota