Following an accepted and approved proposal by the Midwest Conference to host the 2004 Championship, the NCAA indicated that due to growing concerns over course conditions in Abilene, Texas, Hardin-Simmons University had to relinquish their privilege to host the 2003 championship and the NCAA asked the Midwest Conference to consider hosting this year's championship. Hosting responsibilities for the 2003 Championship will be officially awarded to the Midwest Conference following approval of a recently submitted budget to the Division III Championships Committee. According to an NCAA representative, approval could come as early as the end of this week.

The Golf Courses of Lawsonia in Green Lake, Wis., will serve as the host course to the 10 team, 60-competitor field. Ten teams of five golfers qualify for the championship that was first held in 1996. Ten more individuals from schools not participating for the team title also qualify and play for individual medallist honors. The week of championship events are set to begin with practice rounds on Sunday, May 11 for the 2003 Championship and Sunday, May 16 in 2004. Competitors play two-consecutive days of practice rounds and then four-consecutive days of championship rounds.

"We are absolutely delighted to have been selected to host the 9th NCAA Division III Women's Golf Championship in 2004 and have the opportunity to host the 2003 Championship," said Assistant Commissioner Chris Graham. "We are prepared to showcase the one of the finest golf facilities in the midwest and the hospitality of the Midwest Conference and the Greater Green Lake communities."

This marks the first time that the Midwest Conference has hosted a national championship.

"I'm confident it will be the finest championship experience yet for Division III women's golf," Graham added.

Lawsonia offers two contrasting 18-hole layouts of magnificent design, astounding panorama, unmatched beauty, historical landmarks and abundant wildlife. Lawsonia has been recognized by Golf Digest as One of America's Best and Most Affordable Public Golf Facilities and was given a 4.5 star rating by the same publication.

"We believe that Lawsonia clearly fits the criteria of a championship caliber course and we are proud to have the opportunity to host the NCAA Division III Championships," said Lawsonia Business Director Jeff Penkwitz.

"The Green Lake Country Visitors Bureau is delighted to welcome the NCAA Division III Women's Golf Tournament to one of the most beautiful unspoiled areas of Wisconsin and to one of the state's premier golf courses," said Green Lake Country Visitors Bureau representative Ellen Sorensen. "We invite tournament participants, spectators and staff to experience the cultural, recreational, and natural resource opportunities available in Green Lake Country."

The MWC, established in 1921, is comprised of ten private, residential, liberal arts institutions in Wisconsin, Illinois and Iowa. Members include Beloit College, Carroll College, Grinnell College, Illinois College, Knox College, Lake Forest College, Lawrence University, Monmouth College, Ripon College and St. Norbert College. The MWC sponsors 20 championships, ten for men and ten for women, including women's golf that is held in the fall semester. The Midwest Conference Office is located on the campus of Ripon College.