Exciting Developments in College Golf: Meet the Women Freshmen to Watch in 2025-26

College golf is back in full swing as players are gearing up for a thrilling season in the lead-up to the NCAA Championships. This year promises a fresh wave of talent, setting the stage for fierce competition and potential breakthroughs on the course. With seasoned players battling for major titles and awards, the spotlight also shines on the promising newcomers who aim to make their mark.

The 2025-26 season introduces a fresh crop of freshmen already poised for excellence. Each year, we see young athletes stepping onto college golf teams, bringing remarkable skill and a competitive spirit. Last year, players like Jasmine Koo from USC and Andrea Revuelta from Stanford grabbed headlines with their impressive performances. As we move into this new season, it’s time to look ahead and identify the key freshmen to watch.

Top Freshmen to Keep an Eye On This Season

As college golf enthusiasts anticipate the action, here’s a detailed look at ten outstanding women freshmen who are expected to make a significant impact this season. These athletes come with impressive resumes and strong backgrounds that suggest they are ready to rise to the occasion.

1. Sarah Hammett, USC

Hailing from Australia, Sarah Hammett has already made a considerable impression on the national scene. With a remarkable runner-up finish at the Australian Women’s Amateur and participation in match play at the U.S. Girls’ Junior, her competitive spirit and skill have set her up for a promising college career at USC. The Trojans are excited to have her aboard as they strive for championship glory.

2. Sophie Han, Oregon

Sophie Han aims to make a name for herself with the Oregon Ducks. She secured match play at the U.S. Girls’ Junior and has a strong record of three runner-up finishes in professional events in China. Han’s ability to perform under pressure will be crucial as she navigates her freshman year, and she’s certainly one to watch as the season progresses.

3. Thanana Kotchasanmanee, Princeton

Princeton welcomes Thanana Kotchasanmanee, who comes off a victorious claim at the Ladies National Golf Association Amateur title. Additionally, she reached the Round of 32 in the U.S. Girls’ Junior. Kotchasanmanee’s pedigree and experience suggest that she will contribute significantly to Princeton’s golf program this season.

4. Arianna Lau, Northwestern

Defending national champions Northwestern have high hopes for Arianna Lau. As a 64-seed, she impressively made it to the quarterfinals at the U.S. Women’s Amateur and secured a sixth-place finish at the Girl’s Junior PGA Championship. Lau’s strong positioning indicates she could be a game-changer for Northwestern, aiming to defend their title effectively.

5. Rianne Malixi, Duke

A name already known in golf circles, Rianne Malixi burst into the limelight last summer by winning both the U.S. Women’s Amateur and the U.S. Girls’ Junior just 22 days apart. This season, she’s a co-medalist at the U.S. Women’s Amateur, cementing her status as a formidable opponent. Duke’s golf team is fortunate to have such talent, and the spotlight will be on her as she aims for further success.

6. Avery McCrery, Duke

Joining fellow standout Malixi at Duke is Avery McCrery. With a strong showing at the U.S. Women’s Amateur, where she advanced to match play and reached the quarterfinals at the North & South Amateur, McCrery brings experience and competitiveness. The Blue Devils are eager for her contributions to their lineup this season.

7. Madison Messimer, Tennessee

Madison Messimer is another freshman on the rise. She showcased her abilities this summer, finishing 22nd at the Mizuho Americas Open and reaching the Round of 32 in the U.S. Girls’ Junior. With a fourth-place finish at the Dustin Johnson World Junior, her well-rounded experience sets a strong foundation as she joins the Tennessee program.

8. Scarlett Schremmer, Texas A&M

Scarlett Schremmer has made waves transitioning from a surfer to a golfer, winning the Alabama Women’s State Amateur Championship and ensuring match play status at the U.S. Girls’ Junior. Schremmer’s unique background and adaptability on the course will surely inspire her teammates at Texas A&M, and her progress will be closely monitored.

9. Pimpisa "Fai" Rubrong, Arizona State

Pimpisa Rubrong comes to Arizona State after a stellar summer in which she reached the Round of 32 at the U.S. Girls’ Junior and finished third at the Junior Invitational at Sage Valley. Her consistent performance in these competitive settings makes her a highly anticipated competitor for the Sun Devils.

10. Elizabeth Rudisill, Vanderbilt

Rounding out our list is Elizabeth Rudisill, an enthusiastic addition to the Vanderbilt team. With an action-packed summer, she made match play at the North & South Amateur, was a runner-up at the Women’s Western Amateur, and finished sixth at the Girl’s Junior PGA Championship. Rudisill’s momentum will undoubtedly carry into her freshman season.

The Future of College Golf

As the 2025–26 college golf season unfolds, the excitement around these freshmen is palpable. With a blend of seasoned mentors and rising stars, fans can expect fierce competitions, electrifying performances, and perhaps even upsets as these players vie for individual titles and team trophies. The NCAA Championships are on the horizon, and this year’s rookie class is set to play a pivotal role in reshaping the landscape of women’s college golf.

As we follow these promising athletes throughout the season, be sure to stay tuned for updates, standings, and tournament highlights. The journey to national acclaim starts here for these talented newcomers, and we can’t wait to see how they leave their mark on the sport.