News Summary
Providence College is set to reinstate its men’s golf program and introduce a new women’s golf team for the upcoming season. The men’s program has a rich history but was discontinued in 2002. Recent fundraising successes have paved the way for both teams to compete in the Big East Conference, with dedicated coaching to support athletes. This initiative exemplifies the college’s commitment to fostering inclusivity and creating new athletic opportunities for students.
Providence Welcomes Back Men’s Golf and Introduces Women’s Golf for 2025-26 Season
Exciting news is buzzing around Providence as Providence College announces the return of its men’s golf program, set to make its varsity comeback for the 2025-26 academic year! The excitement doesn’t stop there; the college will also launch a brand new women’s golf program at the same time. Talk about hitting a hole in one!
History in the Making
The men’s golf program at Providence College has a storied past. It was initially sponsored during two short stints in the 1930s, then again from 1960 up until its unfortunate elimination in 2002. The program, along with baseball and men’s tennis, was cut due to tough decisions made concerning Title IX requirements by a previous administration. But thanks to the current leadership, there is renewed hope and a bright future for golf at Providence.
Fundraising Success Fuels the Comeback
Under the stewardship of Rev. Kenneth Sicard and athletic director Steve Napolillo, the athletics department has recently enjoyed record-breaking fundraising efforts, amounting to an impressive $10.7 million in the last fiscal year, excluding name, image, and likeness donations. This financial boost has provided the foundation needed to revive the men’s golf program and create the new women’s program.
Sports Legacy: A Tradition of Excellence
Throughout its history, the men’s golf team has seen considerable success, clinching league titles in 1980 and 1993, and finishing as runner-up on four different occasions. The program has produced an impressive six individual league champions and has even showcased back-to-back league champions three times! Icons such as Matt Zito and Bill Reardon (1979-80), Andy Falcone and Shane Drury (1985-86), and Mike Ghelfi and Marc Siewertsen (1992-93) are a testament to a legacy of impressive talent.
NCAA Glory and Hall of Fame Recognition
Under the guidance of the Hall of Fame coach Joe Prisco, the Friars made their mark by reaching eight NCAA fields as a team and sending 14 players to compete in individual match play. That’s quite the accomplishment! But it’s not just about history—there’s a bright future ahead too!
Women’s Golf: A New Chapter
The new women’s golf program is set to debut simultaneously with the reinstated men’s program. Providence College will be hiring dedicated coaches for both teams, ensuring that both male and female golfers receive the best possible guidance. As excitement builds, the college is in the process of identifying a home course suitable for both teams to help hone their skills and showcase their talents.
Big East Conference Competition Awaits
Both the men’s and women’s golf teams will compete in the Big East Conference, bringing a competitive edge and fostering camaraderie among players. It’s a thrilling step forward in the college’s commitment to providing diverse athletic opportunities for students.
A Positive Outlook: Recent Performances
The golf scene at Providence is already witnessing promising talents, with recent performances like Campbell Skelly finishing tied for fifth in a notable event held at the Providence College Ryan T. Lee Memorial. Additionally, Callan Fahey shined by placing 10th in an 80-player field at the Sacred Heart Fall Classic. With indicators of growing talent, the future of golf at Providence College looks bright!
In summary, the revival of men’s golf along with the launch of the women’s program is a huge leap for Providence College, making it clear that they are committed to fostering sports, inclusivity, and community engagement. The 2025-26 season can’t come soon enough!
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Additional Resources
- Friars News: Men’s Golf Places Sixth at Ryan T. Lee Memorial
- Google Search: Providence College golf
- Friars News: Men’s Golf Headed to Ryan T. Lee Memorial
- Wikipedia: Providence College
- GolfWeek: Providence Friars Restoring Men’s Golf
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Golf
- Friars News: Men’s Golf Returns to Action at Sacred Heart Fall Classic
- Google Scholar: College Golf Programs
- Friars News: Men’s Golf Announces Incoming Class
- Google News: Providence College women’s golf
Author: STAFF HERE PROVIDENCE WRITER
PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER The PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREProvidence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Providence, Providence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as WaterFire, Rhode Island International Film Festival, and Rhode Island Comic Con. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce and Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in finance and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Citizens Financial Group and Textron. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Rhode Island's dynamic landscape.
