University of Colorado Athletics: The Buffaloes Gear Up for the NCAA Golf Championship
CARLSBAD, Calif. — The stage is set, and the excitement is palpable as the University of Colorado men’s golf team embarks on a journey to the 127th Annual NCAA Championship Finals. After an impressive third-place finish in the Northwest Regional last week, the Buffaloes are determined to carve their names into the annals of college golf history.
A Season to Remember
This season has proven to be one of the best in University of Colorado’s history. The recent third-place finish marked the team’s 10th top-five effort of the season, surpassing their previous best of nine. With one victory, six runner-ups, two third-place finishes, and a fifth, the Buffaloes are eyeing their historic 17th NCAA Finals appearance since their debut in 1947. Their best-ever finish? An eighth-place ranking back in 1968. If the current team can match or surpass that, they will advance to the match play portion of the championship.
CU is entering the finals as the No. 22 seed, ranked 29th nationally. The competition begins with four days of stroke play on Friday, following which the field will narrow down to 15 teams after three rounds, and ultimately to eight for match play on the subsequent Tuesday and Wednesday.
Coaches’ Confidence
Despite the accolades, head coach Roy Edwards and associate head coach Derek Tolan maintain that their team has yet to unleash its full potential.
“We’re entering Carlsbad expecting to compete at a high level, but we know we haven’t played our best golf yet,” Edwards emphasizes. “Our primary focus is on preparing and executing our game.”
This intent to elevate their performance bodes well for a team ready to seize glory.
Meet the Team: Talented Lineup
In a format allowing six players per team, the starting lineup includes two seniors, Justin Biwer and Dylan McDermott, alongside junior Hunter Swanson, and sophomores Ty Holbrook and Brandon Knight. Senior Jack Holland will act as the alternate, ready to step in if needed, showcasing not just talent but teamwork.
Swanson led the Buffaloes with a remarkable seventh-place finish at the regional, while Biwer followed closely in 12th place. Additional contributions came from McDermott, Holbrook, and Knight, indicating a well-rounded team poised for success.
A Learning Experience
While many players were part of the team that finished 21st two years ago, they’re looking forward to leveraging their past experiences in Scottsdale. Biwer, McDermott, Swanson, and Holland all participated two springs ago, with McDermott even advancing individually to the final round.
“Every team has its unique characteristics,” Edwards notes. “This year, the players believe unequivocally that they can advance to the Finals. Their shared experience should certainly benefit newcomers Holbrook and Knight.”
The chemistry among the players contributes to the team’s unity and confidence as they head into the finals.
The Championship Course: La Costa
The North Course at the Omni La Costa Resort & Spa serves as the championship venue for the second year in a row. Built by Dick Wilson and opened in 1965, the course has undergone significant renovations, most recently by Gil Hanse and Jim Wagner. Playing at 7,528 yards and par-72, the course promises to challenge every facet of the competitors’ games.
“I’ve heard very positive feedback about the redesign from Gil Hanse,” says Edwards. “Last year’s conditions were tough, and it’ll be fascinating to see how it holds up this year.”
Tournament Information
Following an early practice session at La Costa, the Buffaloes will tee off on the 10th hole at 7:25 a.m. PDT on Friday and on the first hole at 12:45 p.m. PDT on Saturday. They’ll compete alongside fellow competitors UNLV (seed 23) and Purdue (seed 24). Live scoring is available here, and expect extensive coverage from The Golf Channel.
Key Notes
- The Buffaloes recently completed a practice round at La Jolla Country Club, joined by former Buff Michael Feuerstein and PGA star Phil Mickelson.
- The team boasts a 173-28-2 record against Division I competition this season, a remarkable 85.7% win rate.
- Colorado’s five seniors graduated with a 100% graduation rate, maintaining academic excellence alongside athletic prowess.
Conclusion: A Bright Future Ahead
With a legacy of strong performances and a talented roster, the University of Colorado men’s golf team is more than ready to take on the challenge at the NCAA Championship Finals. As they prepare to make their mark, the Buffaloes hold the promise of a season that could redefine their history. All eyes will be on them as they swing into action — let’s see what unfolds!
