The Simpson women’s golf team finished its 2025 fall season at the American Rivers Conference Championship in Long Grove, Iowa. They finished sixth overall.

In the first round, the Storm shot a 345 as a team, with junior Laura Klaessy leading at 84. Junior Kaylin Long and sophomore Addison Brink both scored 86 to follow.

The team improved with a much better performance when the second round came, as they shot 333. The Storm lowered their team score by 12 strokes.

The last day was the best for Simpson, as they shot their lowest round of the tournament with a 331. This was one of the top scores in the entire field for the day.

Overall, the Storm finished with a three-day total of 1009, where they beat Central College, Luther College, and Nebraska Wesleyan University. 

For Long, the tournament was a big learning experience.

 “After struggling the first day with nerves and not hitting the ball how I wanted, overcoming that mentally was a challenge for me the second day,” she said.

Though Long found a way to turn it around.

 “It showed me how much mental toughness matters and reminded me that I can bounce back even with a rough start,” Long said.

There was a moment on the 18th hole of the second round which stood out to Long. 

 “I had a five foot putt for par on my final hole, and making it meant I’d break 80. With everyone watching, there was a lot of pressure,” she said.

She referred to the putt as a big deal, because it was her first time breaking 80 in a conference tournament. 

This momentum helped her finish in the top 15 individually and earn All-Conference honors for the first time.

Klaessy also had clear goals coming into the tournament. 

“I really wanted to focus on my putting. Coach Johnson emphasized how important it is to avoid three-putts and get the speed right on the greens.”

She said she worked hard on this during practice rounds. 

“I feel like I met that goal by staying committed to my putting routine and keeping my focus on the greens throughout the tournament.”

Klaessy also mentioned the pressure she felt, as she was nervous, but still grateful for the chance to compete. She credited her teammates, coach and family for helping her stay calm. 

“My parents were there, and having their support made a big difference,” she said.

Both players said the tournament taught them the importance of mental toughness and teamwork.

“Golf is full of both good and bad shots, so I learned that I can’t control everything but I can control my attitude and effort,” Klaessy said.

Looking ahead, Long hopes the team continues to improve, while Klaessy is ready to keep focusing on her role and supporting the team’s climb in the standings.

The conference championship gave Simpson good experience and confidence for the next season coming up.