"I am really pleased with our early signees," St. John said. "The four we have at this point will give us a chance to be extremely competitive in our first season."

Highlighting St. John's latest signees is Pennington, who was recently named Tennessee's Class 3AAA Player of the Year. At Cumberland County High School, Pennington was a three-time district player of the year (1998-2000), the regional player of the year in 2000 and a four-time qualifier for the state tournament. Pennington, a regular at The Vinny each season, placed a career best sixth at the state tournament this past season.

"Kimmerlee will have an immediate impact on our program," St. John said. "She's a very strong player and one who will continue to get better. Blue Raider fans will hear a lot from her during her career."

Newell, another prep signee, hails from Louisville's Ballard High School. Newell placed second at the Kentucky Women's State Amateur this past summer and has also won the Pepsi Junior Tournament (1999) and the Jefferson County Invitational (1998). During the summer, Newell was rated among the 10 Best Girl Junior Golfers on the Baker-Geary-Dunne Championship Tour.

"Becky is a very hard worker and a team player who will bring a lot to our program," St. John added. "She has a bright future with the Lady Raiders."

Burnett, a transfer from McLennan Junior College, is from Monahans, TX. Burnett, who will be counted on for immediate leadership, is rated 11th nationally in the junior college ranks.

"We are very pleased to have Kandace representing our program and this university," St. John said. "She brings with her, not only a strong golf game, but also much needed maturity and experience."

Pennington, Newell and Burnett join Tullahoma's Kristin Lynch as the women's golf programs first four signees. The Lady Raiders will begin competition in 2001.

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