Koelbaek’s success a mixed bag for golfer

Therese Koelbaek is playing some of the best golf of her life. Yet she can't fully enjoy her success.

The junior from Denmark is ranked No. 67 in the nation, averaging 72.63 strokes per round. However, her UNLV teammates have struggled this spring and therein lies the conflict.

"It's hard to see them having such a tough time," Koelbaek said. "But all I can do is be supportive and try to play the best I can to help the team."

Perhaps playing at home this week will provide a spark for Missy Ringler's team. UNLV hosts its annual Spring Invitational beginning today at Boulder Creek Golf Club. Ringler is looking for some consistency over the next three days, something that's been lacking going back to the fall.

"I feel we're really underachieving and it's hard to pinpoint why," Ringler said.

UNLV appeared to be in good position to finish in the top half of the 18-team field at last week's Bruin-Wave Invitational in Santa Clarita, Calif.

But the team imploded on the final day and wound up 11th.

However, Koelbaek was immune to the collapse as she finished strong, shooting a 2-over-par 74 and finishing tied for 10th among individuals.

"We'll play a good round, two good rounds, but then we struggle," Ringler said of her team's inconsistent play. "It's frustrating and we talked about it afterward. But for us to compete, we need everyone ready, not just Therese."

Koelbaek said an adjustment to her swing during the winter break has improved her ball striking and is putting her in a position to shoot a low number each time she tees off.

"I changed my stance and loosened my swing a little and it has really helped," she said. "I'm hitting more fairways and more greens. I'm very pleased."

Ringler said in addition to Koelbaek's execution, her mental stability helps her remain consistent.

"She doesn't allow herself to get too low or too high," Ringler said. "She understands that golf is a tough mental game and she's very steady."

Koelbaek said being confident makes playing easier.

"I feel like I'm in a good place emotionally," she said. "I've worked hard on my game and to see it pay off has really boosted my confidence. I feel like I can compete with anyone right now."

UNLV is trying to defend its team title from a year ago.

Among the schools in this year's 18-team field are Mountain West foes Brigham Young and Wyoming.

"This week is all about us getting our confidence back," Ringler said. "Playing at home should help us. We know the course. We've had success here. The season is still young, but it's time for us to step it up."

Play begins at 7:30 a.m. each day.

Contact reporter Steve Carp at scarp@reviewjournal.com or 702-387-2913.