Warren gets back on track

Many of the players on the Warren girls golf team spent the summer working on their games. This has led to a more competitive team and a better experience all the way around.

The latest example came Monday in the Blue Devils' final North Suburban Conference match of the season.

Warren (189) recorded three scores in the 40s, and that was enough for a 10-stroke victory over Mundelein (199) at Bittersweet Golf Club.

"It's been a lot more fun because they dedicated time to improving," said Blue Devils coach Leigh Ann Boncher. "That has made us a lot more competitive."

Warren started the season strong but struggled in the middle part. The Blue Devils finished with a 4-4 conference mark.

The NSC tournament is today at Deerpath Golf Course. Although a loss for Mundelein, this was the Mustangs' second lowest score of the season.

"It feels good to end on a win," Boncher said. "Now, we're back on track for the tournament. We have the scores. We just need it to all come together on the same day."

On Monday, Warren senior Brittany Hippensteel earned medalist honors with a 44. Her key hole was the par she made at the par-3 sixth hole. Hippensteel's approach left her only about 20 feet to negotiate.

"It's almost an island green, so it's always a challenge to make par," she said.

Warren's other scores were from Carly Deblock (47), Lauren Patnoe (48) and Dana Lindelof (50).

Deblock added about 40 yards to her tee shots this season. When she hits a tee shot more than 200 yards, it takes a lot of pressure off the rest of her game.

"I'm making a better weight transfer," said Deblock, who also is drawing the ball for more distance. "It's made a big difference."

Junior Colleen Unger (48) had the low score for Mundelein. Unger's highlight was the 35-footer she made for birdie at the fourth hole.

"I was so surprised my mouth dropped," she said. "I wasn't expecting it to go in."

Unger, who shot in the low 50s last year, has started to break 50 on a regular basis.

"I'm a lot more focused and I enjoy the game more," she said.

Mundelein's Lauren Pierpont (49), Gabby Esperson (51) and Katie Moran (51) also helped the Mustangs break 200.

"Our goal from the beginning of the season was to get out of the 200s," coach Barb Hartwig said.