The Return of College Golf: A New Wave of Fresh Talent for the NCAA Championship

The excitement of college golf is palpable as the season kicks off, and the race to secure a spot in the NCAA Championship begins. College campuses are buzzing with returning stars and keen newcomers ready to showcase their skills. Each season introduces a fresh crop of talent, and the 2025-26 season is no exception. As returning teams and inducted freshmen gear up for competition, anticipation builds for their contributions to a thrilling season of amateur golf.

Impactful Freshmen in College Golf

The emergence of exceptional freshmen has become a hallmark of college golf, capturing the attention of fans and experts alike. Each year, a number of freshman golfers rise to fame, turning heads with their promising performances. The likes of Daniel Bennett, last season’s Phil Mickelson Award winner at Texas, and LSU’s Arni Sveinsson are prime examples of how newcomers can make an immediate impact. With the 2025-26 season underway, here are ten men’s college golf freshmen poised to make waves.

1. Kihei Akina — BYU

Starting off our list is Kihei Akina from Brigham Young University. Akina has already made headlines by winning the prestigious Larry H. Miller Utah Open, a historic event that has been around for a century. This summer, he also secured a runner-up finish at the Terra Cotta tournament and reached the semifinals of the North & South. With such a stellar start, Akina is set to take on the collegiate golf circuit with an impressive background.

2. Carson Bertagnole — North Carolina

Next up is Carson Bertagnole, the promising freshman from the University of North Carolina. Bertagnole’s potential for an immediate impact is apparent; he finished fifth in the Junior Invitational at Sage Valley and advanced to the Round of 32 in the U.S. Junior Amateur. His strong performances in high-stakes junior events suggest that he will be a significant asset to the Tar Heels this season.

3. Jackson Byrd — Clemson

The legacy of Clemson University in collegiate golf continues with Jackson Byrd, son of former Tiger great Jonathan Byrd. Jackson arrives with a remarkable international competition resume that includes appearances in the Junior Ryder Cup, Junior Presidents Cup, Toyota Cup, and Wyndham Cup. Byrd’s rich heritage may place him on a path for success as he joins the ranks of the Tigers.

4. JD Culbreth — Georgia

Transferring to the University of Georgia, JD Culbreth looks to mark his presence early in a season expected to bring great accolades for the Bulldogs. With a third-place finish at the Sunnehanna and 13th at the Southeastern Amateur, Culbreth has demonstrated his capability to compete at high levels. His combination of talent and ambition will serve him well as he embarks on this new chapter.

5. Henry Guan — Oklahoma State

Henry Guan is another highly-touted freshman who joins the Oklahoma State golf team, which is coming off a national championship run. Although the Cowboys return all five starters, Guan’s talent ensures he will likely find early opportunities to showcase his impressive skills. This capability positions him as a key player to watch as the season progresses.

6. Will Hartman — Vanderbilt

Will Hartman is making his way to Vanderbilt with expectations riding on his capable shoulders. After making it to the quarterfinals of the North & South Amateur and finishing 14th at the Junior Invitational, Hartman has proven he can stand up to the challenge. As he transitions to collegiate golf, he may find himself taking on pivotal roles in crucial matches for the Commodores.

7. Chase Kyes — Tennessee

Chase Kyes has firmly established himself as a competitor to watch for the Tennessee Volunteers after finishing as a runner-up at the Western Junior and ranking 18th at the Boy’s Junior PGA Championship. Furthermore, participation in marquee events like the Sunnehanna, North & South, Southern Amateur, and Western Amateur speaks volumes about Kyes’ dedication and skill level, emphasizing his potential to thrive as a freshman.

8. Anh Minh Nguyen — Oregon State

At Oregon State, Anh Minh Nguyen has burst onto the scene with impressive credentials. He finished as the runner-up in the 2025 U.S. Junior Amateur before advancing to match play at the Western Amateur. Additionally, Nguyen’s victory at the Korea K-Golf Lab Invitational—a professional event—further showcases his potential to dominate as he transitions to college golf.

9. Logan Reilly — Auburn

Logan Reilly is another freshman poised to fill significant roles for Auburn. With a strong performance that included making match play at the U.S. Amateur and reaching the Round of 32 in the U.S. Junior, Reilly has proven his mettle under pressure. His experience in high-stakes environments will be invaluable for the Tigers as they strive for success this season.

10. Michael Riebe — Vanderbilt

Wrapping up our list is Michael Riebe, another impressive freshman stepping into Vanderbilt. A left-handed golfer, Riebe finished eighth at the Junior Invitational and was able to make match play at both the U.S. Junior Amateur and the North & South Amateur. With his skill set and experience, Riebe is set to become a strong addition to the Commodores’ lineup.

The Future of College Golf

With so much talent arriving this season, the future of college golf looks bright. These freshmen are not just participants; they are frontrunners who can influence their teams and generate excitement among fans. As they compete for major awards and vie for victory, we can expect exhilarating performances, competitive spirit, and moments that could go down in college golf history.

The NCAA Championship is on the horizon, and with these ten freshmen, the path is paved for a thrilling season that will keep golf enthusiasts on the edge of their seats. As these young golfers step into the spotlight, they offer a glimpse into the future of the sport—one filled with promise, potential, and unmatched fervor. College golf is back, and it has never looked more exciting!