After a day of golf Sunday, Notre Dame started its title defense strong, leading the 2012 Big East tournament in Orlando with a score of 296. The Irish lead second-place South Florida by two strokes after 18 holes of golf.
"We really have an opportunity here to finish our season on a high note," Irish coach Susan Holt said. "We're really excited about the opportunity."
Freshman Ashley Armstrong led Notre Dame, carding a one-over par 73. The one-over was good enough to tie for the individual tournament lead with South Florida senior Kelli Pry.
Right behind Armstrong were senior BeccaHuffer and sophomore Kristina Nhim, both shooting a 74, putting them in a seven-way tie for individual second-place.
"We have five solid players who on any day can go out and get good scores," Holt said. "That's been one of our strong points all season."
The Irish have a 15-shot lead over the third-place Rutgers, who opened with a 311. Louisville (312) and St. John's (314) round out the top five.
Freshman Kelli Oride finished with a 75. Rounding out the Notre Dame contingent was senior Katie Allare. Allare turned in a 78, putting her five strokes off the tournament-leading Armstrong.
"We're five-strong, we need all five of us to show up for us to compete," Holt said. "We're not carried by one player, and I like our chances because of that. We've had different players step up all year."
Today's second round play is scheduled to begin at 8:00 a.m. The Irish golfers will be paired with golfers from both South Florida and Rutgers.
Contact Nick Boyle at nboyle1@nd.edu
