Highlights from the 2025 College and Amateur Golf Season
As we turn the page on another year, it’s an opportune moment to reflect on some of the standout moments in college and amateur golf for 2025. From talented teenagers to seasoned players making an impact, the amateur golf scene has provided fans with thrilling stories and unforgettable achievements.
Mason Howell’s Remarkable Breakthrough
Mason Howell emerged as a formidable presence this year. His journey began when he earned medalist honors at a U.S. Open qualifier, granting him his first major championship start. His accomplishments didn’t stop there; he also claimed medalist honors at the U.S. Junior Amateur and, after getting into the U.S. Amateur match-play bracket through a playoff, he triumphed in the prestigious tournament. His performance led him to represent the United States in the Walker Cup, where he secured a 2-1 record. The amateur golf community now recognizes Mason Howell as one of its brightest stars.
Key Highlights:
- U.S. Open Qualifier: Medalist honors
- U.S. Junior Amateur: Medalist awards
- U.S. Amateur: Champion
- Walker Cup: 2-1 record representing the U.S.
Northwestern’s Historic Upset in NCAA Championship
In a stunning turn of events, Northwestern University defeated top-ranked Stanford in the NCAA Women’s Golf Championship. This upset is being hailed as one of the most significant moments in women’s college golf history. Northwestern’s impressive performance led to their first championship victory, showcasing the unpredictable nature of match play.
Event Highlights:
- Match: Northwestern vs. Stanford
- Outcome: Northwestern wins their first NCAA Championship
The Walker Cup at Cypress Point
The 2025 Walker Cup took place at the iconic Cypress Point Club, acknowledged as one of golf’s premier venues. This memorable week brought together top amateurs from the U.S. and Great Britain & Ireland, with breathtaking visuals and enthusiastic crowds enhancing the event’s allure. The atmosphere at Cypress Point created lasting memories for both players and fans alike.
Venue Highlights:
- Location: Cypress Point Club, Pebble Beach
- Status: Rated No. 1 on Golfweek’s Best Classic Courses in the U.S.
Megha Ganne’s Triumph
At the U.S. Women’s Amateur held at Bandon Dunes, Megha Ganne solidified her status as a leading figure in women’s golf. Her stellar performance throughout the week culminated in a championship victory, marking her crowning achievement on one of golf’s prominent stages.
Achievement Highlights:
- Event: U.S. Women’s Amateur
- Location: Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, Oregon
- Outcome: Champion
Luke Clanton’s Stellar Performance
Before transitioning to the professional circuit, Luke Clanton dominated the amateur scene. The former top-ranked amateur earned his PGA Tour card this year, significantly enhancing his prospects for success at the professional level. Notably, he also won the Ben Hogan Award and was a close contender for the Fred Haskins Award.
Key Achievements:
- Dominance in Amateur Events: Multiple titles and accolades
- PGA Tour Card: Earned in 2025
Lottie Woad’s Consistent Excellence
Lottie Woad has been a consistent performer throughout the year. As an amateur, she captured the Women’s Irish Open and finished third at the Amundi Evian Championship—an achievement that secured her LPGA card shortly after. She further solidified her status by winning the Women’s Scottish Open, demonstrating her talent and potential for future success.
Highlights:
- Victories: Women’s Irish Open, Women’s Scottish Open
- LPGA Card: Secured through consistent performance
Groundbreaking LEAP Program
The LEAP program made its debut, offering a pathway for collegiate golfers to transition directly to the LPGA Tour. Similar to the PGA Tour University, LEAP rewards players based on their finishes in top collegiate and amateur events. Lottie Woad’s success was a landmark moment for the program.
Program Highlights:
- Introduction: LEAP for collegiate players
- Success Stories: Woad’s pathway to LPGA
Historic Moments in Division II
In an unprecedented achievement, Drew Zielinski from Lee University made history by winning the Golfweek Fripp Island to Bermuda Invitational, the first Division II player to earn an exemption into a PGA Tour event. Zielinski later competed in the Butterfield Bermuda Championship, finishing impressively despite missing the cut.
Achievement Details:
- Historical Win: Golfweek Fripp Island to Bermuda Invitational
- PGA Tour Exemption: First for a Division II player
Acts of Heroism
In a remarkable display of courage, two golfers from Purdue Fort Wayne saved a man from drowning by jumping into an icy pond. This incredible story highlights the spirit of sportsmanship and bravery inherent in the game.
Unforgettable Aces
In October, Niel Phillips achieved the extraordinary feat of making two holes-in-one on the same hole in a single day. Phillips first aced the 182-yard hole with a 6-iron and later hit another ace using a 7-iron on the same hole, marking a memorable day in his golfing career.
Highlights:
- Achievement: Two aces on the same hole
- Clubs Used: 6-iron and 7-iron
Celebrating Augusta’s Newest Champion
Carla Bernat Escuder made history as the first woman from Spain to win the Augusta National Women’s Amateur, joining a legendary list of Spanish champions in golf. This victory solidifies her status as an emerging star in the golfing world.
Notable Win:
- Event: Augusta National Women’s Amateur
- Significance: First female Spanish champion
Anticipation for a 59
The prospect of achieving a score of 59 in college golf looms on the horizon. Having occurred early this year during a practice round with Utah’s Sergio Jimenez, the anticipation builds as players eye this milestone in competitive settings.
Upcoming Expectations:
- Event: Potential for a 59 in collegiate competition
- Previous Achievement: Practice round by Sergio Jimenez
As we reflect on the remarkable achievements and memorable moments from this year, the future of college and amateur golf looks incredibly promising, filled with potential stars ready to make their mark.
