Kansas State University Women’s Golf: A New Era of Excellence
MANHATTAN, Kan. – Kansas State University (K-State) Women’s Golf is making waves as seniors Carla Bernat and Sophie Bert lead the charge into their first NCAA Regional appearance in eight years. Recently announced accolades from the Big 12 Conference underscore the talent that these young women bring to the course.
Carla Bernat: A Historic Achievement
In a monumental recognition, Carla Bernat has been named the Big 12 Women’s Golfer of the Year. This honor elevates her to the elite ranks of Kansas State athletics, making her only the second player in program history to achieve this, with Christine Boucher being the first in 2003-04. Bernat’s consistent performance has earned her All-Big 12 honors for two consecutive years, solidifying her status alongside Boucher as one of the few golfers in K-State history to accomplish this feat.
- Career Excellence: Bernat ranks as the top Big 12 player in the National Collegiate Golf Rankings, sitting at an impressive No. 23. Her scoring average of 70.09 is nearly a shot per round better than the school record she set last year, and her all-time career average sits at an astonishing 70.49.
Sophie Bert: Shattering Records and Expectations
Sophie Bert is not just a teammate but a formidable competitor, as she joins Bernat on the All-Big 12 Team—the first time K-State has placed two players on this all-conference roster in the same season. Transferring from East Tennessee State, Bert adds a wealth of experience and skill, having also garnered All-Southern Conference honors last season.
- Statistical Stardom: With a scoring average of 72.75, Bert ranks third in program history. Her seven top-10 finishes in 11 tournaments, alongside outstanding performances, make her a standout player. She set the program record with a stunning 9-under par, 63 in the second round at the Westbrook Invitational.
Coach Stew Burke: A Proud Proud Mentor
Head coach Stew Burke has lauded both Bernat and Bert, stating, "We are incredibly proud to have two players named to the All-Big 12 Team. This recognition is a testament to their hard work and a fantastic season. I believe they have bright futures ahead—both in postseason play and possibly on the professional circuit."
Record-Breaking Performances
Bernat and Bert have not just filled the leaderboard with their names; they’ve redefined what it means to be a K-State golfer:
- Bernat finished in the top 20 in all 11 events this season, never finishing a tournament over par. She has two significant victories this year: the Powercat Invitational in September and the MountainView Collegiate in early March.
Notably, her 11-under par, 205 score at the MountainView Collegiate ranks her third in K-State history. Over her two years, she holds eight of the top 16 54-hole scores in program history.
- Bert, a groundbreaking player, became the first K-State golfer to win an individual conference championship. Her 54-hole score of 2-under par, 211 set a new standard for K-State, highlighting her unique ability to perform under pressure.
Looking Forward: The NCAA Lexington Regional
As they prepare to lead the Wildcats into the 2025 NCAA Lexington Regional, set to take place from Monday through Wednesday at Keene Trace Golf Club in Nicholasville, Kentucky, both players are key to K-State’s aspirations. With their remarkable accomplishments, they’re not just representing Kansas State; they’re setting a standard in collegiate women’s golf.
Conclusion
The journey of Carla Bernat and Sophie Bert is an inspiring chapter for Kansas State University Women’s Golf. As these young women aim for greatness, they remind us that hard work, talent, and determination can lead to extraordinary achievements. Keep your eyes peeled, as they prepare to make history!
For more updates on K-State athletics, visit the official K-State Sports.
