CGN Player Highlight & Interview: Chase Cline Making His Mark at Charlotte
Chase Cline, a sophomore at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte from Chapin, South Carolina, has quickly emerged as one of the 49ers’ most promising golfers. A transfer from Western Carolina, Cline brings athletic versatility, proven results, and a competitive mindset that has already made an impact in his first season with Charlotte.
Career at Charlotte
Since arriving in Charlotte, Cline has wasted no time proving himself. Career highlights include:
Co-medalist at the Visit Knoxville Collegiate (Sept. 2025): Opened with a program record-tying 64 and followed with rounds of 70 and 71 at Tennessee National to finish at -11, leading Charlotte to a tie for fourth.
Since joining Charlotte, there has been an immediate improvement, noting how the competitive team environment has elevated his game.
Established himself as one of the team’s top scorers in his sophomore season.
Career at Western Carolina
Before transferring, Cline made his mark in Cullowhee:
Competed in all 10 events as a freshman, leading the Catamounts in scoring average (72.80).
Recorded a career-low 210 (72-69-69) at the JT Poston Invitational, finishing tied for ninth.
Collected Southern Conference Golfer of the Week honors after a runner-up finish at the Los Vaqueros Intercollegiate in Mexico (212, -4).
Finished tied for 14th in his first Southern Conference Championship appearance.
Named to the Southern Conference All-Freshman Team (2024–25).
Junior and Amateur Success
Cline built a strong foundation before college through standout play on the junior and amateur circuits:
Winner of the 66th South Carolina Junior Championship at The Woodcreek Club (213, -3).
Runner-up at the South Carolina Class 5A State Championship, narrowly falling in a playoff.
Four-time medalist as a senior in high school with a 70.05 scoring average.
Region 5A Player of the Year and All-State selection.
Represented the South Team in the North/South All-Star match play, finishing 3-0.
Competed in the U.S. Junior Amateur at Oakland Hills, nearly setting the course record before late bogeys.
Interview Highlights
In his recent CGN interview, Cline reflected on his unique path and what drives him:
Athletic background: Excelled as a high school football kicker, earning four-star national ratings and hitting field goals of 49 and 51 yards. His father emphasized how unusual his path to golf has been, saying:
“He is one of these kids who never devoted time to golf. Most of the kids dedicated their time to golf, but he was so dedicated to football and didn't know which direction he wanted to go until his senior year in school. What separates him from everyone else is that he didn't feel pressure. He kicked three field goals of 50+ yards plus. I asked if he was more nervous on the back nine and football and there was no difference. He doesn't feel pressure for whatever reason.”
Mental game: Emphasizes bouncing back after mistakes, trusting his faith, and keeping perspective in the “big picture” of life and golf.
Breakthrough moments: Shooting a career-low 62 at Tennessee National and advancing deep in USGA qualifiers gave him confidence that he belongs among the top competition.
Personal side: Grateful for his parents’ support, his mom keeps him fueled mid-round with snacks, and his dad backs his journey through travel and entry fees.
Goals at Charlotte: Stay patient, continue improving, and help the 49ers compete for championships.
