WINONA, Minn. — Dan Messmann expected his Saint Mary's University women's golf team to finish in the bottom third of the field at the UW-Eau Claire Invitational — after all, some of the best NCAA Division III teams in the country were competing.

He also expected his top golfer, Andrea Hanke (Janesville, Wis.) to be among the top third of the 96 golfers in the 14-team field.

Messmann didn't get exactly what he expected — he go more.

As a team, the Cardinals placed 14th overall, finishing with a 770 total — far back of tournament-champion and MIAC rival Gustavus' winning total of 665.

Individually, however, Hanke exceeded Messmann's expectations.

Top third of the field? How about top five.

The SMU junior — an All-MIAC performer a year ago when she placed fourth in the conference tournament — carded rounds of 82-81—163 to place fourth overall. UW-Eau Claire's Maggie Loney took medalist honors, shooting a 75-80—155. Jennifer Young of UW-Oshkosh took second place with a 159, while Susie Lewis of UW-Stevens Point took third with a 162

"Andrea played great all weekend," understated Messmann. "She played a solid first round, and then to come back and shoot an 81 on one of the toughest courses in the state (of Wisconsin) was just awesome. The conditions were tough, but Andrea battled through and just played her game.

"I knew she had the potential to finish pretty high — but fourth overall, that's impressive."

Caty Beel (Tucson, Ariz.) chipped in a 201 (103-98), while Katie O'Connor (Orland Park, Ill. / 99-105—204), Katie Omdahl (Algona, Iowa / 101-103—204), Dani Lynch (Williston, N.D. / 103-105—208) and Kristi Pugal (Brookfield, Wis. / 105-105—210) rounded out the Cardinals' top six.

"This was a very tough tournament," said Messmann. "There were so many good Division III teams there, which made it a good experience for our team. It gave everyone a look at what it takes to be a top-notch program.

"For a first meet, I was pleased with the way we performed," Messmann continued. "We've still got a lot of work to do, but it was a good start."