Jax State concluded its last tournament before the Conference USA Championship with a ninth-place finish at the Ironwood Invitational hosted by East Carolina.
 
The Gamecocks posted rounds of 307, 305, and 307 as a team to finish seven strokes behind Tulane. Virginia Tech won the event with a total of 875 for the 54-hole event.
 
"This week was a step in the right direction," said coach Robbie Fields. "We have been emphasizing the need to accept and move on from our mistakes quicker, which I believe we did. It's encouraging to see things heading in a positive direction heading into the CUSA championship."
 
Rebekka Stutley was the highest finisher on the roster with a 12^th-place showing of +8.
 
"Bekky really toughed it out for us this week and put together a really impressive performance," said Fields. "Her ball striking wasn't quite rewarded with her scoring, but I am really excited about the way she hit the ball."
 
The freshman opened with a 77, highlighted by a birdie on the fifth hole and posted three in the second round to shoot 76. The native of Adelaide, Australia posted red numbers in Tuesday's final round with a one-under 71 with five birdies on the card.  
 
"She's been working hard in her first semester of college and we're seeing those benefits," said Fields. "With a little rest and recovery, I believe she'll be in great shape to help us compete for a championship."
 
Her nine total birdies were tied for fifth-most in the field.
 
Fellow freshman Lara El Chaib was 22^nd at +11, opening with a 75 with three birdies and closed with a pair of rounds at 76. She was ninth in the field in Par 4 scoring at 4.1.
 
Ebby Somers was 42^nd at +16 with rounds of 78, 74, and 80. Rachel Camp was 66^th at +21, shooting 77, 80, and 80. Paula Perez Cubinas rounded out the roster in 83rdd at +29 (80-79-86).
 
The Conference USA Championship runs April 14-16 at World Golf Village in St. Augustine, Fla.
 
"The next 10 days will be very important to get healthy and clean up some simple things and I believe we will be ready to go in St. Augustine," said Fields.