Ward, Daniel selected by Lopez for Solheim Cup

DUBLIN, Ohio – Nancy Lopez went with veterans for her two captain’s picks to the U.S. Solheim Cup team, selecting Wendy Ward of Edwall, Wash., and Hall of Famer Beth Daniel to complete the 12-player team that will face Europe on Sept. 9-11 at Crooked Stick in Carmel, Ind.

Lopez announced her choices Sunday after Cristie Kerr, the No. 1 player on the U.S. Solheim points list, won the Wendy’s Championship for Children.

Also on the team are LPGA rookie of the year Paula Creamer, Laura Diaz, Natalie Gulbis, Pat Hurst, Juli Inkster, Rosie Jones, Christina Kim, Meg Mallon, Michele Redman and Kerr. Creamer is the first rookie to make the U.S. team.

“All I can say is they (the Europeans) had better get ready because they’re going to get beat,” Creamer said, her teammates laughing and applauding behind her. “I’m putting it down. I’m very confident.”

She then turned to her 11 teammates and Lopez and said, “What are you guys laughing about? You don’t want to win? Let’s go U-S-A.”

Ward was No. 13 and Daniel No. 14 in the points standings. Lopez chose them over No. 11 Dorothy Delasin, No. 12 Heather Bowie and No. 15 Stacy Prammanasudh.

Daniel has won 12 1/2 points in seven Solheim Cup appearances; Ward has won 2 1/2 points in two Solheims.