The long-anticipated moment has arrived: FSU Men’s Golf is set to begin its quest for the 2025 NCAA Championship. After a year marked by consistent performances and determined preparation, the Florida State men’s golf team is poised to take the national stage by storm. The action begins today at 3:45 p.m. ET at the prestigious Omni La Costa Resort in Carlsbad, California, where the Seminoles will start the stroke play portion of the NCAA Championship.
With their eyes locked on the national crown, the Seminoles are bringing the same core lineup that has carried them through a strong season. Luke Clanton, Tyler Weaver, Gray Albright, Jack Bigham, and Carson Brewer will represent the starting five, with Patrick McCann waiting in the wings as a potential match play substitute. This cohesive group has demonstrated resilience, skill, and chemistry all year—and now they’re ready for the biggest stage in college golf.
Experienced, Focused, and Battle-Tested
Few teams arrive at the NCAA Championship with the level of experience and determination that defines FSU Men’s Golf. The Seminoles made a deep run in last year’s national tournament, advancing all the way to the championship match before falling to Auburn. That bitter ending has fueled their drive throughout this season.
“We’ve been here before,” head coach Trey Jones said earlier this week. “It’s very good for these guys to learn how to do this because [PGA] Tour events are the same way. You get to a tournament on Monday, but you’re trying to get your body ready for Sunday. It doesn’t do any good to be so excited that you’re here and want to do everything early that you lose what we’re actually trying to do.”
Jones, who has built FSU Men’s Golf into one of the premier programs in the nation, emphasized the importance of preparation, pacing, and staying grounded—especially for the younger players who are experiencing this elite stage for the first time.
“We really try to just keep harping on them: ‘Stay on East Coast time. Let’s take care of your bodies,’” Jones said. “Excitement is excitement. They’re still waking up at 3 or 4 in the morning.”
Coming in Hot: Momentum and Talent on FSU’s Side
The Seminoles are riding a wave of momentum into the national championship. Just last week, FSU Men’s Golf captured its home NCAA Regional in dominant fashion, winning by a commanding nine strokes. That victory not only secured their spot at La Costa but also served as a resounding statement that this team is peaking at the right time.
One of the biggest highlights for the Seminoles heading into the NCAA Championship is the individual success of sophomore sensation Luke Clanton. Earlier this week, Clanton was named the winner of the prestigious Ben Hogan Award, given annually to the top collegiate golfer in the nation. With his stellar performances throughout the season and a future on the PGA Tour already taking shape, Clanton is expected to be a major force this week in Carlsbad.
“This golf course, no matter how many times you play, it’s going to be demanding. So we’re excited to come out here,” Clanton said. “We’ve had a couple of guys now that haven’t played it out here, and they’re excited to come out and play. And you know, again, we’re all just ready to go. We’ve done all the prep. We’ve done all the work we can. It’s go time now.”
The Format: A Grueling Test of Skill and Stamina
The NCAA Championship format is both grueling and thrilling. The tournament kicks off with four rounds of stroke play, testing each player’s consistency and mental toughness across challenging conditions. After the stroke play portion, the top eight teams advance to match play—a head-to-head elimination format that crowns the eventual national champion.
For FSU Men’s Golf, advancing to match play is a crucial first step but they aren’t just looking to make it; they’re aiming to win it all.
“It’s a long week,” said Coach Jones, “but our preparation has been geared toward handling the length and pressure of this event. The players understand what it takes.”
Match play introduces a new level of intensity and unpredictability. It’s a format where anything can happen, but it also offers teams with depth and grit like Florida State, a chance to shine.
Building a Championship Culture at Florida State
The consistent excellence of FSU Men’s Golf in recent years is no accident. Under the leadership of Trey Jones, the program has cultivated a culture centered on hard work, attention to detail, and a deep commitment to player development. Whether it’s helping student-athletes transition to professional golf or guiding them through the pressure of NCAA competition, Florida State has built one of the strongest developmental pipelines in college golf.
With a blend of experienced upperclassmen and rising stars, this year’s team is emblematic of that culture. Players like Tyler Weaver and Gray Albright provide veteran leadership, while newcomers like Jack Bigham and Carson Brewer bring energy and raw talent. The balanced roster gives Florida State the versatility and depth needed to compete against the nation’s best.
Looking Ahead: The Road to a Title
As the 2025 NCAA Men’s Golf Championship gets underway, all eyes are on FSU Men’s Golf to see if they can complete their mission. The Seminoles have the talent, coaching, and experience needed to navigate the week’s challenges—and their hunger for a national title has never been stronger.
For fans, alumni, and college golf enthusiasts, the coming days will be must-watch events. Can Florida State finish the job and bring home the championship that slipped away last year? If their recent play is any indication, they are more than ready for the moment.
“We’re here. We’ve done the work,” Clanton said. “It’s go time now.”
Popular FAQs:
1. What is the format of the NCAA Men’s Golf Championship?
The NCAA Men’s Golf Championship starts with four rounds of stroke play. After stroke play, the top eight teams advance to match play, which determines the national champion through head-to-head elimination rounds.
2. Who is playing for FSU Men’s Golf in the 2025 NCAA Championship?
Florida State is fielding its core lineup of Luke Clanton, Tyler Weaver, Gray Albright, Jack Bigham, and Carson Brewer. Patrick McCann may be subbed in for match play.
3. When and where does FSU Men’s Golf tee off in the NCAA Championship?
FSU Men’s Golf tees off at 3:45 p.m. ET at Omni La Costa Resort in Carlsbad, California, as they begin the stroke play portion of the 2025 NCAA Championship.
4. Has FSU Men’s Golf won a national championship before?
While FSU has consistently been a top contender in recent years, including reaching the final in 2024, they are still seeking their first NCAA national championship title in men’s golf.
5. Who is Luke Clanton and why is he important to FSU’s team?
Luke Clanton is Florida State’s top golfer and the 2025 Ben Hogan Award winner, recognizing him as the top collegiate golfer in the country. He is seen as a future PGA Tour star and a key player in FSU’s national title hopes.
Final Thoughts
With a blend of elite talent, postseason experience, and unwavering focus, FSU Men’s Golf enters the 2025 NCAA Championship as one of the favorites to win it all. As the Seminoles tee off today, they carry the hopes of a program that has been knocking on the door of greatness and now seeks to walk through it.
Keep your eyes on the leaderboard and prepare for an exciting week as Florida State chases glory on the fairways of Carlsbad.
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