May 7, 2008

LAKE CHARLES-- McNeese State's head women's golf coach Mike Fluty announced his recruits for the 2008-09 season here Wednesday. Clements High's (Sugarland, TX.) Maggie Ray, Kapaun Mt. Carmel High's (Wichita, Kansas) Kandace Fowler, Bishop Carroll High's (Wichita, Kansas) Alaina Cleland, Reitz Memorial High's (Evansville, Indiana) Megan Reynolds and Salina South High's (Salina, Kansas) Jordan Nixon.

Ray helped Clements High to a district and regional tournament title and placed fourth at the regional tournament. She will take part in the Texas High School State Tournament this weekend. She is the daughter of former Lake Charles resident Eddie Ray who played football at LSU then went on to play professionally.

"Maggie is a strong athlete who hits a long ball off the tee. She is a fierce competitor who will push the upperclassmen hard for a spot on the travel team. We are fortunate to sign a quality player like her," said head coach Mike Fluty.

Fowler was a member of the 5A-6A state team. "Kandace is another strong hitter who is very competitive. She is a leader who captained her team for three consecutive years, leading them to regional titles and a second place finish in the Kansas 4A-6A state tournament this season.

Cleland won the Wichita City League postseason tournament and finished second at the Kansas 6-5A regional tournament and 16th at the state tournament.

"Alaina is an outstanding student-athlete with a 3.9 GPA and scored a 27 on the ACT. She hits the ball long off the tee and has the potential to make a contribution to our success. I'm very pleased she has chosen McNeese State to continue her education and golf development."

Reynolds won the Evansville Girls Junior City Champion with a 75 and is a three time all-city and all-conference selection. She placed second at the conference tournament with a 76. She is a three time state finalist.

"Megan is a great addition to our team. She has a solid track record of high performance in pressure tournaments. Her game is solid from tee to green and I expect her to challenge for a spot on the travel squad this Fall."

Nixon has 24 tournament wins over the past four years which includes two regional titles, the Kansas Women's Golf Association State Championship, the KWGA Four State Qualifier, three Optimist International Qualifiers and a PGA South Central Section Championship.

"Jordan is a very experienced player who shows unlimited potential for becoming a strong collegiate player. Her strength is the short game but she is working on swing changes that will help her become a very competitive college player. Another strong competitor who will push the upperclassmen. She rounds out a great freshmen recruiting class for the Cowgirls."

"All the signees share the same qualities. All have a competitive nature about them with great work ethic, a love for the game and a track record for winning tournaments. The addition of these five quality student-athletes will make for a very competitive Fall season."