Two full weeks remain before 182 women from around the world head to Venice, Florida to compete in Stage II of the LPGA Tour Qualifying School. Among those competing are Epson Tour members ranked within the top 125, LPGA Tour members ranked outside of the top 150, players who qualified through Stage I earlier this season and the five top-ranked amateurs.
One of the 36 amateurs, Jennifer Rosenberg, earned entry through a good finish at Stage I. The New York native was proud of her performance and is ready to take the momentum into Stage II.
“I had no idea what to expect,” said Rosenberg. “I had no idea what I was walking into, playing against 300-plus players, the majority of whom are professionals. It was a really proud moment for me in my career to finish 67th out of everyone. I was really happy with how I played and handled myself through it all.”
While intimidating, Stage I showed Rosenberg that she has what it takes to compete with the pros. Rosenberg says her experience at Stage I will only help her at Stage II in November. She plans on keeping as much pressure off herself as possible.
“I think if I can focus on myself, focus on my game and play good for me, then that’ll be enough,” said Rosenberg. “I’m just really trying to enjoy myself and take in the experience all together. Having Stage I under my belt is really going to help me mentally.”
Most recently, Rosenberg made a splash on the Ladies European Tour (LET). The amateur qualified into the Aramco Team Series – New York and joined Team Gustavsson to take home the trophy. Playing with Johanna Gustavsson, Jessica Karlsson and Karolin Lampert was something she’ll never forget.
“That was an experience of a lifetime for sure,” said Rosenberg. “I actually qualified for it as an amateur, so that was just a privilege, and it was such a great time. My performance at the tournament showed me that I am just as good as these women, and I can hold my own. It got me really excited for the future.”
The win in New York was a confidence boost for Rosenberg, reassuring her that she’s on the right career path. It also gives the amateur momentum going to Stage II.
“I’ve been on a high,” laughed Rosenberg. “And I want to continue that high, and hopefully play well at Stage II. The win and experiencing it with those girls as my teammates for the week was just unbelievable.”
After tasting the spotlight on the LET, Rosenberg wants more. However, she reminds herself to be patient and enjoy the moment.
“My goal for the week [of Stage II] is to stay grounded,” said Rosenberg. “I’m really trying to focus on my mental game here, just because I know the physical part is there, I know my game is there. Truly staying in the moment is going to be really important for the week.”