COLUMBUS — The Columbus State University Men's and Women's Golf programs are set to begin the 2025–2026 season with high expectations, a strong mix of returners and newcomers, and a focus on competing for Peach Belt Conference Championships and NCAA postseason berths.
Both squads enter the year emphasizing depth, consistency, and steady improvement across the lineup. Head Coach
Kristin Culpepper and Director of Golf
Lee McCoy have challenged their players to sharpen scoring averages, improve short-game conversion rates, and raise the overall competitive standard in qualifying and tournament play.
The Lady Cougars showed early promise at the Full Moon BBQ Invitational in Calera, Ala., finishing fourth in a competitive eight-team field. CSU closed with a team-best 307 in the final round, demonstrating growth and resilience that sets the tone for the season.
Sophomore
Sydney Himes will once again anchor the lineup after finishing tied for fifth at Full Moon with rounds of 78, 77, and 76. Her steady presence, particularly in final-round situations, provides a strong foundation for the team.
Peyton Maraman delivered a standout final-round 73 to finish tied for eighth, while sophomore Samantha Dewendt impressed with a top-15 performance on day one. Additional contributors such as
Anna Holley and Nathariya Phimsoutham give the Lady Cougars depth and competition for travel spots throughout the season.
"Our group is hungry," said Culpepper. "That gives us confidence moving forward."
On the men's side, the Cougars bring back a balanced roster that blends experience and new energy. Columbus State will look to its veterans to set the tone while relying on newcomers to raise the team's scoring ceiling.
The Cougars' focus this season will be tightening approach dispersion in the mid-iron range and eliminating costly three-putts. Internal qualifying has been highly competitive, a sign that depth and accountability will play a key role in determining the five-man travel roster at each tournament.
"With the men, we're excited about the level of competition we've seen in practice," head coach McCoy noted. "We expect multiple players to step into big roles this season, and the goal is to keep raising the bar."
