Peoria, IL - Bradley University women's golfer Caroline McConnell has been named this week's Busey Bank Scholar-Athlete of the Week, announced Thursday. McConnell earned the recognition after winning the Individual Championship in her first tournament as a Brave.

At Central Michigan's A-Ga-Ming Invitational, McConnell came out on top after a close contest with Central Michigan's Ella Zanatta. Both players finished the 54-hole tournament tied at six strokes over par, leading to a five-hole playoff where McConnell secured the win with two birdies. This makes her one of only five Braves to win a title in their first season and the first since Danielle Lemek in 2012-13. She is also the second Brave to win their first collegiate meet since Jil Swenson in 2000.

"Caroline was impressive from start to finish this week," said Bradley Women's Golf Head Coach Halley Morell. "She battled through five extra holes and earned her first win as a Brave. I'm excited to see what else she can achieve."

The Bradley Women's Golf team also claimed the team title at the A-Ga-Ming Invitational, kicking off the 2024-25 season with a strong start. McConnell's outstanding debut and academic success have earned her this week's Busey Bank Scholar-Athlete honor.