Photo by Sofía García Vargas | The Crow’s Nest
By Sofía García Vargas
In a display of unwavering skill and determination, the University of South Florida men’s golf team emerged victorious on April 21 at the Pelican Golf Club, securing its sixth American Athletic Conference Championship.
Junior Jake Peacock etched his name in USF golf history with a stellar performance, clinching his first conference championship win. Peacock’s remarkable journey saw him shoot a career-best 64 (-6) in the third round, tallying an impressive total of 199 (-11), also marking a career-best achievement.
Under the guidance of head coach Steve Bradley, the Bulls showcased their dominance, capturing their 19th conference championship overall and their first since the 2020-21 season. This victory also marks the fourth occasion that USF has secured both team and individual conference championships in the same year, a feat previously accomplished in 2021.
Peacock’s stellar play was complemented by the contributions of graduate student Brock Healey displayed consistency, finishing just outside the top-10 at even par 210 and tied for 12th.
Redshirt junior Cooper Smith, a hometown hero from Tampa, showcased his best round of the tournament with an even-par 70 in the third round, finishing tied for 22nd at 214 (+4). Meanwhile, junior Shubham Jaglan of Delhi, India, contributed solid performances throughout the championship, finishing tied for 25th at 215 (+5).
The Bulls’ stellar performance wasn’t confined to individual achievements.
USF asserted its dominance as a team, finishing the tournament with a resounding seven-shot victory at 828 (-12). Their impressive display included leading the field in pars and ranking second in par scoring, showcasing depth and resilience on the course.
As the 48th-ranked team in the nation, the Bulls have once again proven their mettle on the golfing stage, adding yet another chapter to their legacy. With coach Bradley at the helm for his 10th season, the USF men’s golf program continues to set the standard for excellence in collegiate golf.
With the win, the men’s golf team joins the long list of accolades the University of South Florida athletics has obtained in the last few months.
