Nellysford, Va. – The Southern Virginia University women's golf team surged to the top of the leaderboard after day one of the Knights Invitational, held at the Stoney Creek Golf Course at Wintergreen Resort.

On the familiar par-72, 5,817-yard course, the Knights built an impressive 11-stroke lead over last year's first-place mark and currently sit 13 strokes ahead of second-place York College of Pennsylvania. Southern Virginia's strong start puts them in prime position to defend their team title heading into the final round.

Team Standings (Day One)

1. Southern Virginia – 321

2. York (PA) – 334

3. Maryville (TN) – 346

4. Bridgewater – 357

5. Southern Virginia (B) – 373

6. JWU Charlotte – 429

7. William Peace – 238

The Knights were powered by standout rounds from Sydney Richards and Quinn Foulger, who both shot +4 (76) to tie for third place individually. Lexi Leavitt followed in ninth place at +11 (83), with CC Benz at +14 (86) in 13th, and Halle Western close behind in 15th with a +15 (87).

Southern Virginia's balanced play across the roster set the tone for the tournament, as the Knights look to finish strong on day two.

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For the latest updates on Southern Virginia University golf, visit knightathletics.com or follow @knightwgolf on Instagram.