The much-anticipated 2026-27 college golf season is upon us, bringing excitement back to the fairways after a thrilling 2025-26 campaign. Just three months ago, the Stanford women and Auburn men celebrated their NCAA championships at the Omni La Costa Resort & Spa, marking the conclusion of a remarkable year in collegiate golf. As summer tournaments wrapped up, the focus shifts back to college golf, with teams and players eager to make their mark this season.
With the new season underway, Golfweek has released its preseason rankings and predictions, setting the stage for a competitive year ahead. This includes insights into potential champions and standout players as the season unfolds. As the collegiate golf community gears up for another thrilling year, several key storylines are emerging.
One of the most prestigious awards in college golf, the Haskins Award, is already generating buzz, with Alabama junior William Jennings emerging as a strong contender. After a challenging start to his college career, Jennings turned things around dramatically last season, securing three tournament victories and finishing as the runner-up at the NCAA Championships. His trajectory suggests that he is just beginning to tap into his potential, making him a player to watch closely this season.
On the women's side, Texas's Farah O'Keefe is predicted to repeat her success by winning the Annika Award. O'Keefe has been in exceptional form, dominating both college and amateur circuits over the past year. As she enters her final season at Texas, expectations are high for her to continue her impressive performances and lead the Longhorns to success.
When it comes to team championships, Arizona State is favored to claim the men's national title. Head coach Matt Thurmond has assembled a talented roster, featuring experienced seniors like Connor Williams and Fifa Laopakdee, along with promising underclassmen such as Boston Bracken and Nguyen Anh Minh. This combination of experience and youthful talent positions the Sun Devils as strong contenders for the championship.
For the women's national championship, the University of Southern California (USC) is expected to be a formidable force. Despite Stanford's recent dominance, having won three of the last five titles, USC boasts a deep lineup with standout players like Jasmine Koo and Bailey Shoemaker. Their depth and talent could prove crucial as they aim for the top spot this season.
In terms of individual talent, Tennessee's Tyler Watts is highlighted as the best men's freshman to watch. Ranked third in the world, Watts had a stellar summer, winning the Northeast Amateur and making it to the quarterfinals of the U.S. Amateur. His impressive credentials suggest he could have a significant impact at Tennessee this season.
On the women's side, Duke's Mia Hammond is poised to make waves as a top freshman. Having already secured a professional win, Hammond joins a strong Duke roster, which includes last year’s standout freshman Rianne Malixi. Her arrival adds depth and talent to an already competitive team.
Looking at teams that missed the match play in 2026, Tennessee's men’s team is expected to bounce back, bolstered by new transfers and a strong incoming freshman class. Similarly, Texas A&M's women’s team, which fell short last season, is anticipated to be a top contender this year, thanks to its impressive depth.
Coaching accolades are also on the line, with Tennessee's Brennan Webb and Miami's Janice Olivencia emerging as potential candidates for Coach of the Year honors. Both have revitalized their respective programs, setting them up for successful seasons ahead.
As the 2026-27 college golf season unfolds, the excitement builds for what promises to be another thrilling year filled with competition, emerging talent, and the pursuit of national championships.
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