Sept. 4, 2008

Allendale, Mich. - Grand Valley State junior Ashley Smith was named the GLIAC Women's Golf Athlete of the Week on Thursday (Sept. 4), the first recipient of the award in 2008. Smith earned the award after helping the Lakers post a record-breaking weekend.

On Aug. 30-31 at the Ferris State Invitational, the Lakers won the team trophy by setting a tournament record of 594, one stroke better than FSU's 2004 total of 595. The GVSU victory also snapped a three-year win streak by Ferris State. Smith was instrumental in the win, as she tied a tournament record for an individual by firing an even-par 144 (70-74) and tallying medalist honors.

GVSU hosted the Laker Fall Classic at The Meadows on Sept. 1-2, as the team finished in fourth place. Smith led the Lakers by firing a 149 (75-74), putting her in a tie for third place at +5.

It is the fourth time in her career that Smith has been named the Women's Golf Athlete of the Week. She also earned the award in the 2006-07 season (Sept. 13) and twice in 2007-08 (Oct. 7, Apr. 15).

Grand Valley State will not compete again until Sept. 22-23 at the Ball State Tournament in Muncie, Ind.