The Southern Illinois University Salukis women's golf team is returning to Florida for the Babs Steffens Invitational after a recent outing in the state. Junior Kayla Sayyalinh aims to build on her recent strong performances. The tournament features a 16-team field at DeBary Country Club.
The Salukis women's golf team recently wrapped up the Advanced Golf Collegiate Invitational in Palm City, Florida, where they placed 17th overall. The team demonstrated notable improvement across the three days of competition. Junior Kayla Sayyalinh led the way, securing ninth place in the event. This marked her highest tournament finish of the season, following her success at the Powercat Invitational in October. For her efforts, Sayyalinh earned Missouri Valley Conference Player of the Week honors.
Now, the Salukis are preparing for their next challenge: the 2026 Babs Steffens Invitational, hosted by Stetson University. The event will take place February 23-24 at DeBary Country Club in DeBary, Florida, following a practice round on February 22. The 54-hole stroke play tournament includes 16 teams: Stetson, Appalachian State, Bryant, Drake, Georgia State, Keiser, LeMoyne, Mount Mercy, UNC Asheville, Palm Beach State, Seminole State, Southern Illinois, Southern Utah, Troy, and West Georgia.
Each team fields five golfers, with the top four scores counting toward the team total. The first two rounds, totaling 36 holes, are scheduled for February 23, followed by 18 holes on February 24. The course is a 6,085-yard, par-72 layout. Stetson has dominated recently, winning the last two editions. In the previous season, the Hatters posted a 12-over par 876, defeating Jacksonville by 15 strokes, with Seton Hall and Queens University finishing third and fourth, respectively.
Coach Sam Sambursky expressed optimism about the team's readiness. "We're looking forward to getting back to Florida and competing," Sambursky said. "After two solid weeks of practice and qualifying, this group is prepared and eager to put our preparation into action."
Live results will be available online during the tournament. Fans can follow the Salukis on X (@SIU_WGolf), Facebook (@Saluki Women's Golf), and Instagram (@siu_wgolf).