Caroline Inglis calmly sank her 3-foot putt to clinch a hard-fought 1-up victory over Annie Dulman in the Round of 32 Thursday morning, and members of the crowd behind the 18th green cupped their hands into an O shape and chanted “Ooooooooo” and “Go Ducks.”

That has been a common scene at this week’s U.S. Women’s Amateur Championship at Portland Golf Club. Inglis, 21, of  Eugene, Ore., is a rising senior on the University of Oregon’s women’s golf team.

Needless to say, she is comfortable in familiar surroundings.

"It's awesome. It's just so nice to have friends and family out here supporting you,” said Inglis. “It's been really, really fun to play this type of course. It's a pretty typical Oregon course and I love it."

Inglis has also enjoyed school spirit on her bag this week. University of Oregon head coach Ria Scott was initially caddieing for Inglis, but had to travel to Eugene on Thursday. But when fellow Duck Cathleen Santoso lost in Wednesday’s Round of 64, there was an unspoken agreement that Santoso would take over caddieing duties.

So far, so good.

"It's perfect, because we basically do everything together,” said Inglis of Santoso. “We practice together. We know exactly what clubs to hit. If she would hit a 6-iron, I would hit a 7-iron, so it works out really well."

Inglis faces Lindsey McCurdy – McCurdy eliminated defending champion Kristen Gillman in the Round of 32 – in the Round of 16 Thursday afternoon. If she makes it to the quarterfinals, there’s a chance Scott could make it back to Portland on Friday.

Could that create a caddie controversy?

“I’m just taking it one match a time. I’m not going to think that far ahead just yet,” said Inglis, laughing.

No matter how far she goes or who’s on her bag, the home-state support will be out in full force. Just look for the bright green clothing or listen for the “Oooooooo” chants.  

Joey Flyntz is an associate writer for the USGA. Email him at jflyntz@usga.org.