1. What is the chances that Pepperdine can win the national title? Who do you see as the top competitors? We have a very good chance this year. Our goal is to have everyone playing their best at the NCAA Championship - May 20-23. The toughest competition will come from # 1 ranked Duke, Auburn, USC, Oklahoma State, Texas and Cal.
2. Coach Gibbs, what have Katherine Hull and Lindsey Wright meant to the program and do you think we'll see them playing on the LPGA?
Katherine Hull and Lindsey Wright have enjoyed great success at Pepperdine. They have been # 1 and # 2 on the team for three straight years and will be 1st Team All-Americans this year - Katherine's third and Lindsey's fourth selection as an All-American. They started in January 2000 and graduated last month in 3 1/2 years. Their contribution to the team has been the key to our success. They both aspire to play on the LPGA Tour and I expect them to be very successful.
3. With Lindsey Wright and Katherine Hull graduating, who will carry the load for the team next season?
Rachel Kyono, Carolina Llano and Courtney Clark return from this year's line-up. In addition, we will add Eileen Vargas from Colombia, Catherine Woods from Denver and one or two other talented recruits. I am excited about our team and think we will surprise some people.
4. What do you think of Anika Sorenstam playing in a PGA event? Do you think that this is a good thing and how do you think she'll fare? Thanks coach!
I applaud Annika's decision to compete on the PGA Tour. She has definitely proven that she is the best women golfer in the world. I think the course will play very difficult, but I think she can make the cut if the wind doesn't blow.
5. Coach, congratulations on a great season thus far. What are your thoughts on the upcoming West Regional in AZ? Has your team played their before? Are they familiar with the course?
Thank you! We are currently on a five tournament win streak and expect to challenge for a sixth win at the West Regionals. Regionals is a different type of tournament because it doesn't matter if you finish first or eighth. The goal is simply to qualify for the NCAA Championship. The course, ASU Karsten, is a Pete Dye design that can play very difficult. We last played the course at the 2000 West Regional and some players are familiar with the course.
6. What is it about Katherine Hull and Lindsey Wright that makes them such great golfers?
They are great players because of their commitment and focus. There are a number of talented players in college golf, but only a small percentage consistently work hard to be the best.
7. Coach Gibbs, as a coach, do you get the opportunity to play much and if so, what is your handicap? Thanks!
Unfortunately, my schedule is full with my family and the team. Currently, my handicap from the men's tees would be about an eight. My goal is to begin playing in the U.S.G.A. Women's Mid-Amateur each year.