Gadsden, Alabama – The Chattanooga Mocs women’s golf team is set to continue its spring season this weekend at the Chris Banister Invitational, hosted by Jacksonville State at the Robert Trent Jones Silver Lakes course. The three-day, 54-hole tournament, beginning Sunday, March 8th, will observe 16 teams competing for the title, offering a convenient opportunity for the Mocs to compete close to home.
Coach Katie Woodruff expressed her enthusiasm for the team’s progress and the upcoming event. “I’m really proud of our improvements from fall to Guadalajara and then from Mexico to Phoenix,” Woodruff said. “We’re excited to be so close to home and get to take on a field that includes nearby schools like Samford, Jacksonville State & Tennessee.”
The Chris Banister Invitational presents a familiar setting for the Mocs, with a history of success at the event. The team has secured three wins in the tournament’s past, claiming victories in 2007, 2008, and 2024. Makenzie Cooper, a key player for Chattanooga, is aiming to become the first Moc to win the same event twice in program history, having already secured the individual title at the 2024 Chris Banister Invitational. More information about the schedule can be found on the Chattanooga Mocs website.
The Mocs are coming off strong performances, having recorded 73 birdies over their last two events – 35 at Guadalajara and 38 at Westbrook Village – the most over 108 holes since 77 in Spring 2024. This demonstrates a clear upward trend in the team’s scoring ability.
Tournament Details
The Chris Banister Invitational will be held from March 8-10 at the par-72, 5,890-yard RTJ Silver Lakes course in Gadsden, Alabama. The field includes a diverse range of programs, including Akron, UAB, Bradley, Central Michigan, Eastern Kentucky, Indiana State, Jacksonville, Jacksonville State, Longwood, North Dakota, Samford, Seton Hall, Tennessee, Troy, and West Georgia. The full schedule was announced on September 4, 2025.
Mocs Lineup
Chattanooga will field a strong lineup for the tournament, featuring:
- Makenzie Cooper: Coming off her fourth career par or better tournament finish, tied for fourth most in program history.
- Kera Healey: Averaging 72.33 over her last six cards, with a score of 2 over par.
- Erin Wells: Led the squad in Arizona with a 5-under performance.
- Bella Bugg: Has posted a score of 74 or less in five of her six collegiate cards.
- Rugile Pauliukonyte: Recorded her best collegiate 18-hole score of 74 in the final round at Westbrook Village.
Looking Back at Past Success
The Mocs have a strong track record at the Chris Banister Invitational. Here’s a seem at their previous results:
| Year | Team Score | Top Individual |
|---|---|---|
| 2007 | 1, 288-297-300=885 | 1, Kelly Brotherton, 74-72-70=216 (E) |
| 2008 | 1, 288-299-291=878 | 1, Emma de Groot, 76-70-72=218 (+2) |
| 2024 | 1, 295-296-296=887 | 1, Makenzie Cooper, 72-73-73=218 (+2) |
Makenzie Cooper’s potential for a repeat victory adds another layer of excitement for the Chattanooga team. With two career wins already under her belt, a win this week would place her among the program’s most decorated golfers, joining Emma de Groot (’11), Dorota Zalewska (’23), and Emily McLennan (’16) with three or more career victories.
The Chattanooga Mocs will look to build on their recent momentum and continue their success at the Chris Banister Invitational. The team’s performance this weekend will provide valuable insight as they progress through the spring season. Fans can follow the action and find more information on the official Chattanooga Mocs women’s golf page.
Stay tuned for updates on the Mocs’ performance throughout the tournament. We encourage readers to share their thoughts and support for the team in the comments below.
