Statistically, Jessica McKay is one of the best women’s golfers in Division II collegiate athletics.
This week, the Fruita Monument High School graduate finally gets to play with the best.
McKay qualified for the NCAA Division II Championships for the first time in her career. She will compete against 47 others representing schools around the country.
“This is something I’ve been working towards,” she said. “I’ve been ranked in the top 16 in the nation the last three years. It’s been frustrating to be so close. I have nothing to lose.”
The four-round national tournament begins Tuesday and concludes Friday at Memorial Park in Houston. The tournament is part of the NCAA Division II National Championship Festival, with the NCAA men’s and women’s tennis, men’s and women’s golf, women’s lacrosse and softball tournaments.
The Grand Canyon (Ariz.) University senior qualified with a third-place finish in the West Regional last week at The Legacy Golf Resort in Phoenix. She has a stroke average of 78.13 this season.
“She played amazing (last) week,” Grand Canyon coach Marc Chandonnet said. “She made a few small mistakes that cost her the ability to win, but she accomplished her goal. Overall, she played spectacular. I’m excited for her to play in nationals.
“She’s been an amazing player for four years. There’s no better person to represent Grand Canyon.”
McKay, who placed fourth in regionals as a sophomore and eighth last year, is the first women’s golfer from Grand Canyon to qualify for the NCAA tournament. The women’s golf program started in 2003.
“She’ll get an opportunity to study the course,” Chandonnet said. “I have 18 years experience in golf and as an individual qualifier, she has the advantage of having her coach with her for every shot. She’s matured over the last four years.”
McKay, who went to Grand Canyon to play golf year-round, agreed.
“I’m definitely a better golfer in the course management area and in confidence,” she said. “I’ve always been able to hit the ball far, but I’ve not been able to actually score well until this year.”
McKay graduated with a bachelor’s degree in marketing May 3.
If she decides to try professional golf, she’ll register to play on the Cactus Tour, an entry-level tour for women.
“I’m a typical senior,” she said. “I have an option of turning pro, but I don’t have the finances to do that. It’s something I’m considering. Maybe I’ll start my (marketing) career.”
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E-mail Allen Gemaehlich at agemaehlich@gjds.com.
