Noblesville’s own Caroline Whallon making her mark on college team
By RICHIE HALL
CARMEL – The University of Indianapolis women’s golf team is one round away from another trip to nationals.
The Greyhounds are spending this week at Prairie View Golf Club in Carmel competing in the NCAA Division II East regional. UIndy is one of 15 teams competing in the regional, with the top five teams qualifying for the NCAA national championships, which take place May 21-25 in Orlando, Fla.
The D-II regionals are a 54-hole tournament, with three 18-hole rounds played over three days, Monday Tuesday and Wednesday. The Greyhounds are in a comfortable spot after the first two rounds, as they are in second place with a 300-303=603. Findlay University is the leader, with a 299-301=600.
One of UIndy’s players is from Noblesville. Caroline Whallon, a freshman for the Greyhounds, has been playing solid over the first two rounds, scoring 76 in Monday’s first round and 79 in Tuesday’s second round. Whallon was a state qualifier for the Millers all four years of high school, so she is very familiar with the Prairie View course.
“It’s definitely a very cool experience as a freshman, very exciting to be able to play at that level,” said Whallon. “And it’s a whole new level, different kind of stress and emotion, but it’s also really fun and a really cool experience to be a part of.”
Whallon is tied for 18th after the first two rounds; one of four UIndy players that are in the top 22 going into today’s final round.
“There’s definitely pressure that comes with it,” said Whallon of playing in the top five. “We have a really good group of girls on this team that we’re all fighting for a spot,” said Whallon. “Having a chance to play top five definitely means a lot. You’ve earned your spot. It doesn’t come without a fight.” While there is pressure, Whallon said “there’s also moments where you can trust your teammates.”
Whallon played four tournaments during the fall season, with a best finish of T17 at the William Beall Fall Classic. In the spring season, Whallon has played five events and put together some nice results. She has three top 10 finishes to her credit, including a second-place result at the NC4K Classic on April 8 and 9 in Grove City, Ohio. Whallon followed that up by tying for fourth at the UMSL Spring Invitational the next week in St. Louis.
And of course, Whallon had to balance golf with her academics. She is majoring in public health with a minor in business administration.
“It’s been a balance, but this season has so far been a big learning experience, and I’m excited for next season,” said Whallon.
The final round of the regional begins at 8:30 a.m. this morning. The Greyhounds will tee off between 10 and 10:36 a.m., with Whallon starting her round at 10:18 a.m. UIndy will be going for its fourth consecutive trip to nationals.
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