Ranking the Elite: The Top 10 High School Golfers in Arizona for Fall 2025

In the competitive landscape of high school sports, few events garner as much excitement as the annual golf season in Arizona. The Arizona Interscholastic Association (AIA) hosts a plethora of talented young golfers vying for championship glory. As we enter the fall 2025 season, The Arizona Republic, with insights from high school coaches, presents its rankings of the top 10 boys’ golfers. This subjective list considers past performances, current projections, and overall skill level. Let’s dive into the rankings and explore the athletes making waves on the state’s golf courses.

The Vote for the Best Golfer

The excitement doesn’t just stop at the rankings. High school fans are encouraged to participate in the voting process to promote their favorite athletes. The poll for determining the top golfer is live until 5 p.m. on September 12, and fans can cast their votes online at azcentral.com/sports/high-schools. Engaging with the community not only highlights the athletes’ achievements but also fosters a spirited atmosphere surrounding high school golf.

1. Landon Ashcraft, Notre Dame Prep, Senior

First on the list is Landon Ashcraft, a senior golfer from Notre Dame Prep. Ashcraft has proven to be a formidable contender in Arizona golf, having captured two Division II state championships. His performance over the summer was particularly noteworthy, leading Team Arizona to its first Junior America’s Cup title in over three decades. He dazzled golf enthusiasts by firing a stunning 9-under 62 in the final round of the 53rd Junior America’s Cup held in Portland, Oregon, earning individual medalist honors.

Caption: Landon Ashcraft, Notre Dame Prep, shot the low score in the Arizona Division II boys high school golf championship.

2. Joseph Nelson, Chandler Hamilton, Senior

Another athlete making waves is Joseph Nelson from Chandler Hamilton High School. A senior and University of Arizona commit, Nelson is the reigning Division I individual champion, shooting an impressive 10-under par in last year’s state tournament. His consistency and skill on the course have made him a standout player to watch this season. As he prepares to defend his title, expectations are high for this talented golfer.

3. Ethan Butters, Gilbert Perry, Junior

At number three, we have Ethan Butters from Gilbert Perry High School. As a junior, Butters commands attention after finishing third at the state championship last year. Notably, he ranks as the highest junior golfer from Arizona in the country, sitting at No. 47. Despite excelling in golf, he’s also recognized for his prowess in volleyball, although he didn’t participate on his high school team last spring. Recently, he showcased his talent by placing second at a prominent world golfing event.

Caption: Perry’s Ethan Butters finished third on the D-I individual leaderboard in the 2024 state tournament.

4. Xander Mulder, Notre Dame Prep, Senior

Xander Mulder, another standout from Notre Dame Prep, ranks fourth on our list. Throughout his high school career, Mulder has consistently placed among the state’s best golfers. Currently, he is ranked 68th by the American Junior Golf Association, making him a crucial player for his team this season. Mulder’s experience and skill will be instrumental in navigating the rigor of high school golf.

5. Owen Greenough, Hamilton, Junior

Next in line is Owen Greenough, who is also from Hamilton High School and is a junior. Greenough was an integral part of Team Arizona’s Junior America’s Cup championship. In individual competition, he achieved 16th place. His continuous improvement and competitive spirit exemplify the determination needed for success in high school golf.

6. Frederick Egnatios, Notre Dame Prep, Senior

Frederick Egnatios makes the sixth spot on our roster. Another talented golfer from Notre Dame Prep, Egnatios advanced to the US Open Final Qualifying in June. His August performance was equally impressive, as he tied a course record at Pinnacle Peak Country Club with a remarkable 62. Egnatios is poised to make significant contributions this season, further establishing his reputation as a top golfer.

Caption: Frederick Egnatios has demonstrated outstanding skill this season, particularly at Pinnacle Peak Country Club.

7. Asher Nelson, Phoenix Brophy Prep, Junior

Ranked seventh is Asher Nelson from Phoenix Brophy Prep. This junior golfer showcased his talents by finishing fourth at the Brophy Rodeo, highlighted by consistent rounds of 71 and 69. Remarkably, he was the only Brophy player to score under par in both rounds. Nelson’s performance has significantly helped his team secure a strong positioning in this competitive season.

8. Evan Tyree, Brophy Prep, Junior

Following Nelson is Evan Tyree, also from Brophy Prep and another promising junior. Recently, he earned medalist honors in a match against Goodyear Millennium, Casa Grande Vista Grande, and Phoenix Sunnyslope by shooting an outstanding 32 over nine holes. Tyree exhibited phenomenal skill with an eagle and four birdies, securing a two-stroke victory that adds to his growing list of accomplishments.

9. Jake Goyen, ALA Gilbert North, Senior

In ninth position, we have Jake Goyen from ALA Gilbert North. A senior committed to Washington State, Goyen has been making headlines this season with one of the lowest scoring averages. He ranked in the top 10 at the state championships over the past two years, exhibiting his competency and consistency. His strong start to this season, placing in the top five for scoring average, signals great potential for further success.

10. Chase Ceserek, Tucson Catalina Foothills, Senior

Rounding out the top 10 is Chase Ceserek from Tucson Catalina Foothills. A senior and Utah Tech commit, Ceserek kicked off his season with a victory at the Brophy Rodeo tournament, besting Ashcraft in a playoff. His performance last season helped lead Catalina Foothills to a Division II runner-up finish behind Notre Dame. With a strong foundation, Ceserek is set to make an impact in this year’s competition.

A Community of Support and Encouragement

High school golf is not just about the athletes; it’s a community effort involving coaches, families, and fans who support these talented youngsters. As the season progresses, we see the incredible camaraderie formed through practices, tournaments, and shared victories. Communities rally around their schools, showcasing the spirit of competition while fostering lifelong friendships and rivalries.

Conclusion: The Future of Arizona Golf

With the fall 2025 season underway, these young athletes represent the future of Arizona golf. As they strive for excellence and aim to break records, their journeys will inspire future generations of golfers. Keep an eye on these top-ranked players as they make their mark on the golf courses across the state. Through ongoing support and recognition, we ensure that their hard work and achievements are celebrated, paving the way for continued success in Arizona’s athletic landscape.

For more updates, rankings, and insider information on high school sports in Arizona, stay connected through The Arizona Republic.