Sept. 9, 2004

Q: When looking back at the 2003-04 season, what are some of the areas that you were pleased with?

A: I thought we accomplished a lot with a relatively young team last year. We had a good, solid season and received contributions - at one time or another - from pretty much everyone who traveled and played. Our scoring average was more consistent on an all-around basis and we had two-out-of-three very good rounds at most tournaments. If we can play consistent golf over all three rounds, I think we will be very competitive in 2004-05.

Q: What are some of the areas that you hope to improve in 2004-05?

A: As a team, we just need to get our averages down a few strokes. We have gotten a lot better about staying away from the big score, but that's something you always have to be cautious of. I also feel like we need to continue to work on our short game. We need to be more consistent around the greens and make a few more puts for birdies. That area is coming along, but we are looking forward to seeing more progress in it during the upcoming season.

Q: Comment on senior Nikki Hadd, who leads a strong group of returnees.

A: Nikki is just an unbelievable person - both on and off the golf course. Every year, she has come back more dedicated to her own game and the team concept. As a leader, that's what you want and that's what you need. I feel like Nikki has the ability to lead this team to a lot of success in 2004-05. I am excited about her potential for the upcoming season and look forward to what she will, once again, bring to the table.

Q: What kinds of expectations do you have for the other returnees?

A: Laura Evans has done very well in her first two seasons as a collegiate golfer. She set a school record by finishing 22nd at the 2003 NCAA East Regional and it's those types of performances that really show her potential. Laura has an incredible game, an incredible attitude and is really a pleasure to work with. Sarah Kate Cousart is now an upperclassman and we will be expecting big things from her. She did a great job of stepping in and competing during her first two years. Sarah Kate has learned a lot and we know she will be much more consistent this year.

Being a fifth-year senior, Lisha Beyer has really put in her time and we feel like she can help us this year. Lisha is a fantastic person and has the most amazing attitude which undoubtedly rubs off on her teammates. One of the things that sets her apart is the fact that she's so involved outside of the classroom and away from the golf course. She is truly a great representative of our program, the athletic department and the University of Mississippi. Katie Davidson is an incredible athlete who offers so much. She brings ability and a lot of mental toughness to the team. Katie stepped in and helped us last year as a freshman. We will be counting on her again during the upcoming season.

Q: What does the lone newcomer, Katherine Jones, add to the mix?

A: We only have six golfers in the program this year, so we will need big contributions from each and every individual on the roster. Katherine will be no exception. We feel like she has the potential to shoot low scores and we are looking forward to helping her with the transition from high school golf to playing in the Southeastern Conference.

Q: Can you preview the 2004-05 regular-season slate?

A: We have a schedule which will challenge us in every way possible. We have made it an emphasis to schedule a lot of the top teams in our region. We will also be competing against some of the nation's best programs and hope to be ready for that. We have a great schedule and all of the tournaments will be extremely competitive. We want to continue to show that we are one of the better teams in the SEC.

Q: I know you are looking forward to hosting the upcoming SEC Championships in Tunica. How exciting will that experience be for everyone involved with Ole Miss women's golf?

A: The SEC Championships should be an incredible event. We are definitely looking forward to it. Tunica National is a brand new golf course and we are all very appreciative of what their staff has already done for us. We are looking forward to working with their people more as the weekend of April 15-17 approaches. We also have an incredible staff here at Ole Miss and all of those people have already begun preparations for the big weekend. We want to make the event a tremendous experience for all of the coaches, student-athletes, support staff personnel and fans who attend.