The Hidden Challenges of Playing College Golf in the USA

For many young golfers, the opportunity to play college golf in the United States represents the ultimate ambition. World-class facilities, high-level competition, scholarship opportunities, and a clearly defined performance pathway make it an attractive prospect.

However, behind these opportunities lies a set of challenges that are not always openly discussed. Understanding these realities is essential for long-term development and success.

The Competitive Reality of College Golf

College golf is intensely competitive. Selection is rarely guaranteed, and weekly performance often determines whether a player earns a place on the travelling team. Every individual on the roster is highly skilled, with many having progressed through elite junior or national development programmes.

While this environment can be motivating, it can also place sustained pressure on confidence, identity, and self-belief. Competing for selection against teammates week after week is a unique challenge that many players underestimate before arriving.

Life Away From Home

Moving overseas at a young age can be exciting, but it can also be isolating. Adapting to a new culture while managing academic responsibilities and performance expectations can quickly become overwhelming.

From a personal perspective, I rushed the initial recruitment process. Although I secured a place at a strong Division I university, greater preparation and understanding could have resulted in a more favourable financial arrangement, reducing unnecessary pressure during my early years.

Better preparation and access to accurate information are therefore vital.

While this may appear obvious, any golfer considering this pathway would benefit greatly from speaking to someone who has already experienced college golf. First-hand insight can provide invaluable perspective and help players better prepare for the realities ahead.

Balancing Demands On and Off the Course

College golfers are required to balance training, competition schedules, academic commitments, travel, and social life often with limited recovery time. Over time, fatigue, constant comparison, and performance evaluation can quietly affect both wellbeing and results if not managed carefully.

In this environment, mental resilience and performance becomes just as important as physical ability.

Staying Connected and Asking for Support

Technology such as FaceTime and other messaging platforms has made it easier than ever for players to remain connected with family, coaches, and mentors back home. Despite this, many athletes hesitate to ask for help when they begin to struggle.

Concerns around selection, fear of appearing vulnerable, or a desire not to let teammates down can prevent honest conversations, even when appropriate support is available.Likewise, with so many distractions and events going on at the university its very easy to get lost in this environment.

How We Can Better Support Young Golfers

To improve preparation and long-term outcomes for college golfers, we should:

·  Normalise conversations around mental health and performance

·  Prepare athletes for the competitive reality before they leave home

·  Encourage early communication rather than crisis intervention

·  Help players separate self-worth from weekly results

·  Maintain strong support networks outside the university environment

Final Thought

College golf in the United States can be a genuinely life-changing experience. By openly addressing its challenges and equipping young golfers with the right mindset, preparation, and support, we give them the best possible opportunity to develop resilience, raise their performance level, and thrive both on and off the course.