Hawai’i Women’s Golf Finishes 11th at Dr. Donnis Thompson Invitational
- ‘AIEA, O’ahu – The University of Hawai’i women’s golf team concluded its home season on Wednesday, finishing 11th at the 40th Dr.
- The invitational marked the final regular season competition at home for seniors Emiko Sverduk, Sofina Firouzi, and Wendy Song.
- Southern California dominated the competition, securing the team title with a remarkable 28-under-par total of 824.
Rainbow Wahine Conclude 40th Dr. Donnis Thompson Invitational
‘AIEA, O’ahu – The University of Hawai’i women’s golf team concluded its home season on Wednesday, finishing 11th at the 40th Dr. Donnis Thompson Invitational at Pearl at Kalauao. The three-day tournament, impacted by Tuesday’s rain, saw the Rainbow Wahine post a final-round score of 304, bringing their total to 909 (+57).
The invitational marked the final regular season competition at home for seniors Emiko Sverduk, Sofina Firouzi, and Wendy Song. Sverduk delivered a strong performance in her final appearance, carding an even-par 71 – the team’s best individual round of the tournament – to finish at 228 (+15) and in 53rd place. Firouzi concluded her collegiate career at the Pearl with a 54-hole total of 236 (+23), finishing 65th. Song was unable to compete due to injury.
Southern California dominated the competition, securing the team title with a remarkable 28-under-par total of 824. USC’s Jasmine Koo claimed the individual medalist honors, finishing at 11-under-par (202) after a final-round 67. The Trojans’ depth was evident, with four of their five golfers finishing within the top 20.
Hawai’i was led by Maline Kraus, who tied for 32nd place with a consistent performance throughout the week. Kraus finished with a total score of 222 (+9), following up two rounds of 73 with a final-round 76. Jasmine Wong also contributed to the team effort, tying for 39th at 225 (+12) despite a challenging final round of 80.
Chloe Ku rounded out the Rainbow Wahine’s starting lineup, tying for 68th with a total of 240 (+27). Kaydence Kim, competing as an individual, finished in a tie for 56th place, posting a final-round 77 to complete her tournament at 230 (+17).
The Dr. Donnis Thompson Invitational holds a special place in the history of University of Hawai’i athletics, honoring the legacy of Dr. Donnis Thompson, a pioneering figure for women’s sports at the university. While facing strong competition from several top-25 programs, the tournament provided valuable experience for the Rainbow Wahine as they prepare for the remainder of their spring season.
The team will next travel to Phoenix, Arizona, to compete in the Ping ASU Tournament from March 23-25. Following that event, they will turn their attention to the Big West Championship in April, which will be held at the Royal Kā’anapali Course in West Maui. The upcoming tournaments will serve as crucial preparation for postseason play, allowing the team to build on the experience gained at the Thompson Invitational and refine their game for the challenges ahead.