Lindsey Wilson Clinches 2025 NAIA Men’s Golf National Championship
SILVIS, Ill. — In a thrilling showdown at the 73rd annual NAIA Men’s Golf National Championship held at the prestigious TPC Deere Run, Lindsey Wilson College from Kentucky emerged victorious, capturing the program’s first-ever men’s golf national title. The Blue Raiders showcased a remarkable performance, finishing the tournament with a three-round total of 862 (287-282-293), clinching the championship by a mere two strokes over Oklahoma City University and four strokes ahead of Wayland Baptist University in third.
A Battle for the Title
From the outset, Lindsey Wilson entered the final day with a slim one-stroke lead. However, the competition intensified as early contenders Wayland Baptist and Keiser University from Florida seized the lead in the opening stages of the final round. Undeterred, the Blue Raiders rallied, reclaiming the advantage during the latter half of the front nine, a moment which marked a critical turning point.
Dramatic Momentum Shifts
Midway through the back nine, Lindsey Wilson’s lead swelled to an impressive 10 shots. But as the pressure mounted, their advantage began to dwindle, narrowing to single digits as Oklahoma City crept closer with their total score of 864 (287-285-292). With excitement building, the attention turned to the final holes.
As the championship reached its climax, Rio Saigal—who tied for third overall at 4-under par 209 (68-67-74)—stood on the 18th hole. A strategic approach shot landed him within 18 feet of the pin, setting the stage for a tense conclusion. A steady two-putt secured the victory, sealing the championship for the Blue Raiders.
The Final Standings
Lindsey Wilson’s outstanding team effort was mirrored in the individual standings, where Jack Whaley from Dalton State took home the individual title with an impressive 8-under par 205 (61-72-72). Following closely was Rodolphe Cicala of Faulkner University, finishing in second at 5-under par 208 (65-72-71).
Top Performers
The tournament also recognized the top players with all-tournament team honors for the best 15 performances:
| Position | Student-Athlete | School |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Jack Whaley | Dalton State |
| 2 | Rodolphe Cicala | Faulkner |
| T3 | Patrick Neal | MidAmerica Nazarene |
| T3 | Rio Saigal | Lindsey Wilson |
| T3 | Vedant Sirohi | Webber International |
| 6 | Nateeshvar Anatha Ganesh | Keiser |
| T7 | Camron Jones | Grace |
| T7 | Jonathan Larson | The Master’s |
| T9 | Nick Erickson | OUAZ |
| T9 | Sacha Brendle | Wayland Baptist |
| T9 | Benjamin Lubker | Wayland Baptist |
| T9 | Christian Yanovitch | Oklahoma City |
| T13 | Stanley White | Lindsey Wilson |
| T13 | Michael Robson | Oklahoma City |
| T15 | Aidan Schumer | British Columbia |
| T15 | Grant Greazel | OUAZ |
| T15 | Tyler Latimer | Dalton State |
| T15 | Seth Bishop | Master’s |
| T15 | Lorenzo Santinelli | Oklahoma City |
A Championship to Remember
The 2025 NAIA Men’s Golf National Championship not only underscored the athletic prowess of Lindsey Wilson but also showcased the enduring spirit of collegiate golf. As the sun set on this momentous event, the Blue Raiders celebrated their historic victory, setting the stage for future generations to aspire to their newfound heights.
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