CSU's Six-Time National Champion Golf Team Needs Student Support
In 2015, the Columbus State golf program opened one of the principal collegiate golf facilities in the country: CSU’s Key Golf Studio. The studio is comprised of 13 acres of land, office spaces, locker rooms, and study areas. A 7,000 square foot putting green, two 4,000 square foot greens for chipping and sand shots, and five target greens are available to help the players perfect their skills.
Columbus State University’s golf program has produced 59 All-American players, made 32 NCAA appearances and won six national championships. Currently, the men’s team is ranked 22nd in the nation for Division II schools. In the most recent tournament, held Oct. 17-18, the men’s team placed second out of 14 teams. The women’s team placed 11th out of 16 teams in their last tournament held Oct. 24-25.
One of the beauties of playing a sport in college is having a student-filled audience to cheer you on. However, this is a challenge for the golf team due to the nature of the sport. “Golf is not a sport that a majority of people will enjoy,” said K.J. Lee, a junior marketing major and player on the men’s golf team. “It’s not exactly a spectator sport like the others.”
Most golf tournaments are hosted several hours away making it difficult for the campus community to attend, but there’s no reason to let distance stop you from showing team spirit. Here are a three easy ways students can show support for CSU athletics year-round.
1. Give verbal support to players.
Hannah Holland, a sophomore communications major and player on the women’s golf team says that her “classmates and professors often ask and comment on their matches.” Simply asking about the results or experiences of a tournament can mean a lot to athletes.
2. Wear CSU attire on tournament days.
Show up to classes wearing your favorite CSU t-shirt, hat, or hoodie. This will not only reveal school spirit, but it will also show acknowledgement of your student-athlete peers.
3. Follow them on social media.
“Like” the CSU Athletics page on Facebook and follow @CSUCougars on Instagram and Twitter. These pages provide updated information on tournament schedules and results.
Though the fall golf season has come to a close, there will still be a chance to cheer on the Cougars this spring. “We would love support from the student body!” said Holland. For information on the spring schedule, visit the Official Athletics Site of the Columbus State Cougars at http://www.csucougars.com/.
Illustration by Noah Sachs
