2025 Jack Nicklaus Award Winners
The Golf Coaches Association of America (GCAA) announced the 2025 recipients of the prestigious Jack Nicklaus Award, recognizing the top collegiate golfers across all levels of collegiate golf. This year's honorees are David Ford (University of North Carolina), Adam Duncan (Colorado Christian University), Jonathan McEwen (Washington & Lee University), Jack Whaley (Dalton State College), and Adam Bresnu (New Mexico Junior College).
Division I: David Ford – University of North Carolina
David Ford, a standout at the University of North Carolina, earned the Division I Jack Nicklaus Award for his exceptional performance throughout the season. Ford's consistent play and leadership were instrumental in the Tar Heels' success, solidifying his reputation as one of the nation's premier collegiate golfers.
Division II: Adam Duncan – Colorado Christian University
Adam Duncan of Colorado Christian University capped off a remarkable season by receiving the Division II Jack Nicklaus Award. Duncan, the top-ranked golfer in Division II, secured four tournament victories and eight top-five finishes during the season. His achievements also include being named the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC) Men's Golfer of the Year and earning First Team All-American honors.
Despite Duncan's individual success, Colorado Christian narrowly missed the NCAA Division II team championship, falling to the University of West Florida in a closely contested match.
Division III: Jonathan McEwen – Washington & Lee University
Jonathan McEwen made history as the first golfer from Washington & Lee University to receive the Division III Jack Nicklaus Award. The rising junior's stellar play throughout the season earned him this prestigious honor, highlighting his status as one of Division III's elite golfers.
McEwen's performance contributed to Washington & Lee's impressive fourth-place finish at the NCAA Division III Championships. The team title was claimed by Methodist University, marking their 15th national championship and second straight win.
NAIA: Jack Whaley – Dalton State College
Jack Whaley of Dalton State College was named the 2025 NAIA Jack Nicklaus Award recipient after leading his team to the NAIA National Championship and posting one of the most consistent seasons in program history. Whaley notched multiple top-five finishes and was instrumental in Dalton State's national title run. His composure and ball-striking set him apart in a highly competitive field.
NJCAA: Adam Bresnu – New Mexico Junior College
Adam Bresnu earned the NJCAA Jack Nicklaus Award after a dominant season with New Mexico Junior College. Bresnu won multiple individual titles and finished inside the top 10 in nearly every event. His impressive play helped elevate the Thunderbirds into national title contention, while establishing himself as one of the top junior college players in the country.
The Jack Nicklaus Award, presented annually at the Memorial Tournament hosted by Jack Nicklaus, celebrates the achievements of collegiate golfers who exemplify excellence on the course. The 2025 recipients—Ford, Duncan, McEwen, Whaley, and Bresnu—have demonstrated outstanding skill, dedication, and sportsmanship, earning their place among the nation's best.
Sources:
2025 Jack Nicklaus Award presented by Workday Recipients Announced
Whaley earns NAIA Nicklaus Award
WLU's McEwen Named Jack Nicklaus Award Winner for Division III
