We know Spiders like to set records, and new grad Elsa Diaz has really taken that sentiment to heart. Not only did she receive an invitation to the LPGA tournament before she graduated with a sponsor exemption, but she’s also the only player in UR’s history to be part of three Patriot League Championships.

As one of our all-time great career golfers, she’s also heading to the pros! Less than a week after receiving her diploma, Diaz is beginning her journey as a professional golfer at the LPGA Kingsmill Championship this weekend.

“People know it’s a prestigious school, so for them to recognize me as a part of the University of Richmond community is a lot of fun,” Diaz said while reflecting on her first pro tournament. “I’m so glad I graduated from there and call myself an alum. I’m very proud to wear that name on my back.”

She joins a pool littered with many of the best players in the world for her first LPGA event. Her career stroke average of 78.22 ranks fifth all-time in the Richmond record book and her 77.80 average during her senior season is 12th all-time to go along with multiple round and tournament scores that rank among the best in UR’s history.

"I just couldn't imagine a better way for Elsa to start her professional career,” head coach Ali Wright said. “She graduated on Sunday … and I'm sure she has busloads of people that will be showing up to watch her so I think the tournament definitely picked a good representative for their sponsor's exemption. For our program, I think it says a lot that we've been able to produce someone worthy of that kind of recognition.”

We are so proud Elsa is repping her red and blue at the pros! Congratulations!