Victoria – The University of Victoria men's and women's golf teams open the 2024-25 season at the True North Classic hosted by Simon Fraser University, Sept. 23-24.

The women's golf team returns the core of its 2023-24 lineup, bolstered by standout rookie Antonia Ho from Ottawa, Ont. With a blend of seasoned veterans and fresh talent, the Vikes are poised to build on last season's momentum as they aim for a top spot in the conference.

On the men's side, the team faces the challenge of replacing key graduates Zach Ryujin and Aiden Craig-Steele. Stepping into the spotlight are rising stars Owen Croft and Maguire Lines, who showcased remarkable consistency to finish last season. With a youthful roster, head coach Justin Clews is eager to see how this group rises to the occasion in 2024-25.

"I'm looking forward to the unknowns of how our teams will match up against other teams in the conference this fall, knowing we have a good group of athletes and a solid base to build off from last year," said head coach Justin Clews.

Key returners
Veterans Cindy Koira, Taylor Adam, Lana Rummel, and second-year athlete Brynne Davies will be key contributors to the Vikes women's team. As seasoned players, their leadership brings invaluable experience to a sport where mental toughness and consistency are crucial. Koira and Davies, in particular, will be looking to build on their impressive finishes at last year's Canadian University/College Championship, where they placed fifth and tenth, respectively.

On the men's side, Owen Croft enters the season riding a wave of momentum from a stellar spring campaign, where he emerged as the team's most reliable player. The Georgetown, Ont. native and former triple-A hockey player made an immediate impact in his debut season, earning All-Canadian honours. Croft led the Vikes to a Continental Athletic Conference (CAC) championship, securing the individual title and being named CAC Golfer of the Year.

Second-year athlete Maguire Lines of Oak Bay High School is another emerging talent to keep an eye on. Voted as team captain by his peers, Lines carries himself like a veteran.

"Maguire is an excellent teammate. He is very mature for a second-year student-athlete and is engaged and respected within the local golf community. He approached me about taking on the captain role last year and it was well received by the team," said Clews.

Off-season additions
Antonia Ho is the lone rookie to join the women's squad this season, but she's already poised to make her mark, with early travel opportunities likely on the horizon. Ho is among the five women selected to compete at SFU's True North Classic. While head coach Justin Clews acknowledges there's still room for her to grow, Ho's presence adds valuable depth to a team that will need all hands on deck when the season heats up.

Top newcomers on the men's side include Jagre Knight from Brentwood College School, where he captained the golf team, and Becker Gilewich from Edmonton's Strathcona High School. Head coach Justin Clews sees Knight as a talented athlete capable of making an immediate impact. Like Antonia Ho on the women's squad, Knight still has some development ahead, but his presence adds crucial depth, even as a rookie.

Gilewich brings not only skill but also an exceptional team-first attitude. According to Clews, he's the kind of teammate every squad needs—supportive and selfless. His strong potential ensures he'll travel with the team sooner rather than later.

Coaches notes
"A collective goal is to continue to create a positive team culture that is collaborative and supportive regardless of who travels week to week. While results are important, creating a great environment where everyone feels like they're contributing and having fun is really the goal."

"That being said, our performance goal is for both teams to qualify for NAIA nationals and finish in the top two at Canadian nationals. It would be great to see our men finish top two at Canada West and our women's team finish on the podium."

TOURNAMENT INFORMATION
Vikes at True North Classic
Monday, Sept. 23 & Tuesday, Sept. 24 | Riverway Golf Course
Live Scoring