The ISU women’s golf team added only one new player to the roster this year.

Freshman Cajsa Persson is the newest member to this team consisting primarily of veteran players.

Persson is in her first year at Iowa State coming all the way from Sweden to be part of the ISU women’s golf team.

“When I came here on my visit, everything felt so good; the team was so amazing, the coach was so nice, and the facility was good,” Persson said about her reasons for coming so far for college.

She made an impression on teammates and coaches right away as she came in sixth individually at the Dick McGuire Invitational, helping the team to a first place finish at the invite.

“It felt really good. I was quite nervous in the beginning. I just focused and played the golf I knew I could. I had so much fun,” Persson said.

Persson played very consistently in her first Iowa State meet shooting three rounds of 73 and settled herself in at even par. 

“She came really strong in the last tournament. She played really solid through all the days,” said teammate Punpaka Phuntumabamrung.

She looks forward to her next chance to represent the team as they head to the Windy City Collegiate Classic Oct. 1-2.

“I’m so excited for [the Windy City Invitational.] It’s always fun to be in tournaments.” Persson said.

Phuntumabamrung commended Persson on her strong start and said that she has begun to notice improvement to her already strong game.

“She’s the type of person who can really hit the ball far, that gives her a great advantage. Her short game is also getting a lot better. I’m so excited for her and to see her play at the next tournament.” Phuntumabamrung said.

Prima Thammaraks, a junior on the ISU golf team and one of Persson’s roommates, described her as inspiring, mature and full of positive energy that she shares with those around her.

“When you get to know her she is outgoing and funny — and a really good golfer. She’s an incredible person with all these different sides to her and I am glad to work with her.” Thammaraks said.

Iowa State has offered Persson a chance to play college golf and to experience new things. The team has offered Persson a family.

“[My favorite part is] the team. They are amazing; we are like a big family. When you have family all the way in Sweden, it is good to have a team that is so close. It feels great.” Persson said.