Vanderbilt freshman golfer Marina Alex describes herself as a laid-back person and takes that attitude with her to the course.

Just don't mistake her relaxed demeanor for noncompetitive.

Alex became the first Commodore freshman ever to qualify for the NCAA Championships at the individual level after finishing in a tie for fifth place at the East Regionals from May 7-9 in Gainesville, Fl. She shot a 214 (69-72-73) to be one of two players on teams that did not finish in the top 8 to advance to nationals at Cave Valley Golf Course in Owings Mill, Md, as Vanderbilt finished five strokes off an NCAA bid.

"If you can't get there with the team, getting there on your own is a big deal," said Vanderbilt coach Greg Allen. "She had her mind made up that she was playing well enough and she was going to do everything she could to get there."

Alex certainly did her part but the rest of the Commodores struggled on the final day. She was disappointed that her team could not come with but is still excited about the opportunity to play on a big stage.

"This is a pleasant surprise actually," Alex said. "I came here really hoping to make an impact on the team and play well, and I have this year. Going to nationals is really nice."

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