As part of UIS Athletics' 15 Years of NCAA Division II Membership celebration, the department is highlighting 15 standout teams and 15 standout student-athletes who have shaped the program's Division II era. Each week, UIS will feature one team and one player, honoring the accomplishments, championship moments, and legacy-building performances that have defined Prairie Stars Athletics.

In week two, UIS Athletics recognizes the 2015-2016 women's golf team, a squad that made a lasting impact on the program's history. The Prairie Stars enjoyed a historic season marked by several milestone achievements. They captured a win at the Quincy Tournament and finished second in the UIS Spring Invite, showcasing consistency and skill throughout both the fall and spring seasons.

At the GLVC Championship in Waterloo, Ill., the Prairie Stars tied for third place, with Maria Espinosa earning a top-10 individual finish. That performance highlighted the team's competitive presence in the conference and their ability to excel under pressure.

The season culminated in the program's first-ever NCAA Division II regional appearance at Panther Creek. The team finished 11th, capping a landmark season and setting a new standard for women's golf at UIS. The team, led by long-time coach Frank Marsaglia, competed at the regional that spring with the lineup of Rebecca Ramirez, Taryn Pittman, Jocelyn Matsen, Maria Espinosa, and Kayla Yn.

The 2015-2016 squad not only achieved historic results on the course but also laid the groundwork for future Prairie Stars teams to build upon.