The Gaels’ golf team is gearing up to chase a national title as they head to Kamloops, British Columbia, for the Canadian University/College Championship from June 3 to 6.
Wrapping up her first year, Golf Head Coach Jessie Mercer led both the Men’s and Women’s teams to qualify—their first t appearance since 2018.
While the Men’s Team appeared at Nationals last year, Mercer acknowledged that there’s a chance to do better. “It’s about improving on last year. It’s a very competitive event. I think making the cut and being there with a chance to play on the final day in a national championship is something that they would like,” Mercer said in an interview with The Journal.
Mercer says the men’s team is focused on gaining experience, as the entire group returns next year. Mercer explains, “It’s about having a really good experience building off last year and then being able to carry momentum into the fall.”
According to Mercer, the event wraps up their 2024 season—making it the final chance for some on the Gaels Women’s Golf Team to compete at this level, even as most sports begin their 2025 campaigns.
“A lot of our women aren’t returning next year, so I think it’s a little different [compared to the men]. They want to go out on a high note. They have great potential at doing well and making that cut. Similar to the men at nationals last year, I think the women want to prove that they really are some of the best girls in Ontario,” Mercer said.
Reigning OUA Golf Individual Champion Daniel Abraha, Comm ‘26, says golf means a lot to the team, as it’s been a part of their lives for as long as they can .
“We appreciate the competition and enjoy being in that competition. We’re trying to compete for a national championship and place well. It’s challenging, but at the same time, it pushes us, and I think that’s something that makes it even more meaningful,” Abraha said in an interview with The Journal.
The Gaels hope to build momentum from the tournament and build lifelong memories at this tournament. Those who return next year will hope to carry the momentum into the OUA Golf season, which starts in September.
All final editorial decisions are made by the Editor(s) in Chief and/or the Managing Editor. Authors should not be ed, targeted, or harassed under any circumstances. If you have any grievances with this article, please direct your comments to [email protected].