MOSCOW, Idaho – Idaho's Big Sky champion women's golf team is headed to Stanford University for the NCAA West Regional – and a chance to advance to the final rounds.

“We are extremely excited that we were sent to the regional on the West Coast,” coach Lisa Johnson said. “It makes for easier travel, and we are familiar with West Coast grasses.”

Johnson takes a team that includes the Big Sky champion – Sophie Hausmann, the Big Sky Freshman of the Year – Michelle Kim, and three other all-conference choices – Kristin Strankman and Cassie McKinley on the second team and honorable mention Kendall Gray.

The Vandals are the 16^th seed in the 18-team field, which begins play May 5 on the par-71, 6,259-yard Stanford University course. The 54-hole event concludes Saturday and has live scoring provided by Golfstat.com.

Johnson said the layout of the Stanford course is one that has suited the Vandals in the past.

“It sets up well for us as we are an accurate ball-striking team,” she said. “The greens are good size and have subtle breaks. Historically, we putt well under such conditions.”

She also likes the mindset of her team, which was extremely focused over the final holes in winning the Big Sky title.

“We are coming off two wins and have a lot of confidence,” Johnson said of the Vandals who also won their regular-season finale – the Wyoming Cowgirl Classic. “Anything is possible when you reach the post-season so it's key that we focus on enjoying the experience and play relaxed.”