Not the kind that helps with a backswing. It's more the kind that translates into adaptability when bad weather puts a crimp on practice plans.
“It definitely has not been a typical spring,” said Montana coach Joanne Steele, who will lead her team into the Big Sky Conference championships Monday through Wednesday in Phoenix. “It's been unique trying to get players prepared in between the snowstorms and squalls.
The Grizzlies have had to make the most of limited warm-weather opportunities. For example, during a recent road trip the players took time to practice one aspect of their game after the tournament - the equivalent of a basketball team running line drills after a game.
Montana reaped the benefits of its flexibility with a runner-up team finish in the Big Sky Preview meet on April 10 at Foothills Golf Club in Phoenix. The Grizzlies carded a team total of 315, finishing the 18-hole event just one stroke back of champion Northern Arizona.
“We've been much more consistent the last 4-5 rounds we've had,” said Steele, whose team had not finished in the top seven prior to the Big Sky Preview. “Talent-wise and physically, we have the skill to do well, but it's the mental aspect and having the confidence. Improving each week has given them the confidence, and they're really looking forward to the conference championships.”
The Grizzlies won the Big Sky title in 2006, then finished a disappointing fifth with an experienced team last season. Montana is younger this season, with sophomores Alyssa Williamson and Jackie Olson and freshman Carrisa Simmons leading the way.
Williamson carded a 4-over-par 76 to finish one stroke back of medalist Ali Carter of Northern Arizona at the Big Sky Preview. Olson finished in a tie for third with a 77, while Anna Maria Jaramillo and Teddi Roberts shot 81s and Simmons 84 to round out Montana's scoring.
Steele said the Big Sky Preview may not have been indicative of where each team stands this week. Most teams played a lot of golf in a short period leading up to the event.
“Going into conference all these teams have had a chance to get mentally prepared,” Steele said. “Our team knows we'll have to shoot lower than we shot (at the Preview). We can't say 315 will get us in the top three. It needs to be closer to 305. We haven't shot that score this spring but we've had a trend of improving each week.”
Steele believes the Grizzlies will be right in the mix if Williamson and Olson continue to play well. Montana set a goal of at least four of five rounds in the 70s.
“The short game will be important,” Steele said. “The course tends to be wide open. Players can spray shots and get away with it.”
Steele, in her 12th season, says she's feeling “great” after undergoing a heart transplant just 19 months ago. She's been touched by the support of the Missoula community.
“It's been probably the most amazing year and a half in what I've been able to do,” said Steele, who recently climbed the ‘M' for the first time. “All the medications I take certainly beat the alternative.
“I tell my players, ‘Enjoy today. Make the most of today.' ”
Notes: The Foothills Golf Club is a par 72, 6,131-yard course ... Olson leads the Grizzlies in stroke average at 79.8, followed by Simmons at 81, Alyssa Williamson 81.9, Jaramillo 82.4 and Brittney Williamson 83.9 ... Sacramento State is the defending Big Sky champion. ... Live tournament updates are available online at golfstat.com. ... Northern Arizona senior Sophia Choi won the league's player of the year award. She took first at the Big Sky championships as a freshman.
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