News Summary
The collegiate golf careers of Josele Ballester and Preston Summerhays conclude at Arizona State University, marking a significant moment for the Sun Devils’ men’s golf program. Both golfers faced a close playoff loss, finishing their ASU journey with commendable achievements and high rankings. They leave a rich legacy that emphasizes teamwork and a strong community spirit, as younger players are poised to step up in their absence.
Tempe, Arizona – The collegiate golf careers of Josele Ballester and Preston Summerhays have come to a close at Arizona State University (ASU), marking the end of an impactful era for the Sun Devils’ men’s golf program. Both golfers finished their season after a heartbreakingly close playoff loss to Mississippi’s Tom Fischer, concluding their time in collegiate golf at an intense showdown on the 21st hole of Michael Mjaaseth’s match.
Head coach Matt Thurmond expressed deep admiration for the two seniors, reflecting on their significant contributions not only in terms of skill and performance but also highlighting their vibrant personalities. Their presence on the team helped shape a competitive yet camaraderie-filled environment, a vital aspect that both players treasured during their time at ASU.
Ballester, ranked No. 6 in the World Amateur Golf Ranking, and Summerhays, ranked No. 14, both achieved impressive career feats during their collegiate years. Summerhays reached a personal best ranking of fifth globally, while Ballester achieved a remarkable highest rank of third. Their rankings illustrate their exceptional talent and dedication to the sport, establishing them among the top amateur golfers worldwide.
The duo also boasts notable family legacies within the golfing community. Summerhays is connected to a lineage of golf excellence, counting his father, Boyd Summerhays, and his grandfather, Pres, among his influences. The pride in potentially leaving a legacy at ASU resonates deeply with them, as they both value the strong sense of community and spirit fostered among teammates.
In recent months, both golfers gained experience in professional tournaments, showcasing their skills on a larger stage. Summerhays received a sponsor exemption to compete in the WM Phoenix Open in 2022, while Ballester had the opportunity to play alongside current PGA star Scottie Scheffler at the prestigious Augusta National earlier this month.
Both athletes emphasized the importance of their shared passion for golf, which fostered lasting relationships with their teammates. Ballester pointed out that this strong bond enhanced the team’s dynamics and was key to their success. The ASU golf program has a rich history, producing notable PGA Tour players including Hall of Famer Phil Mickelson and rising star Grayson Murray. Ballester’s journey is particularly poignant, as he follows in the footsteps of other Spanish golfers such as Jon Rahm, a celebrated U.S. Open and Masters champion.
Throughout their careers at ASU, both Ballester and Summerhays prioritized team success, valuing the moments shared with their teammates. Their hard work resulted in Summerhays finishing seventh in the PGA Tour University rankings, which earned him Korn Ferry Tour membership for the upcoming 2025 season. Their contributions to the program will leave a lasting legacy, and junior golfers like Connor Williams and Pongsapak Laopakdee are anticipated to rise to the occasion and step into leadership roles in their absence.
Though the departure of Ballester and Summerhays will create a noticeable void within the team, Thurmond acknowledges the opportunity for younger players to develop their leadership skills and step up. Such transitions are critical for the continued success of the ASU golf program.
As both golfers reflect on their collegiate journeys, they leave behind valuable advice for future Sun Devil golfers, emphasizing the importance of enjoying the game itself. Their time at ASU has not only shaped them as players but also as individuals ready to face the broader challenges of the professional golfing landscape.
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