CLIFTON SPRINGS, N.Y.—Sophomore Lark Ervasti led the William Smith College golf team in its season opener at Clifton Springs Country Club this afternoon. The Herons faced tough challenges from the course and their opponent today.

William Smith hosted Ithaca College today. The Bombers are the defending Liberty League Champions and finished 19th at the 2021 NCAA Division III National Championship. Additionally, Clifton Springs Country Club and the weather conspired for a formidable one-two punch to both teams. CSCC's 5,614-yard layout featured difficult pin placements for the club championship which teed off earlier in the day. Meanwhile, Mother Nature served up a brilliant summer day for the fall opener. The unrelenting sun drove temperatures into the mid-80s and coupled with the humidity it felt like it was in the 90s.

Led by junior Mary Gersec, Ithaca won the match 345-376. Gersec fired an 84 to beat teammate junior Cristea Park by one stroke. First-year Rheanna DeCrow was third, finishing with an 87.

Playing just her second collegiate round, Ervasti shot a team best 88 to finish fourth overall. It was an eight-stroke improvement over her performance in the William Smith Invitational back in the spring. Sophomore Justine Burness was the second Heron in the clubhouse, two strokes back and tied for sixth place. She closed her round with a strong effort on the par-5 18th. A strong tee shot set Burness up to reach the green in two. Her eagle putt from 25 feet drifted to the left, leaving her a short putt for birdie. Bruness also posted a birdie on the par-5 14th.

"Lark played really consistent all day and it was nice to see Justine make a birdie after a fantastic approach shot to set up an eagle attempt on 18," Head Coach R.C. Weston said.

Senior Emma Nedeau and sophomore Ashley Byron rounded out the Herons' team score with a 98 and 100, respectively. William Smith's 376 team score was its best since posting a 370 in the first round of the 2019 St. Lawrence Invitational.

"We had a nice day out on the course," Weston said. "As expected, the team hit the ball well, but the greens were playing tough and we left a lot of shots out there. I'm really proud of how the team bounced back after tough holes and fought to the end. We have set the bar for the season and know what we need to work on. We now refocus for a good week of practice to prepare for St. Lawrence."