CGN Player Highlight: Kennedy Gooding Standout at Anderson University
Kennedy Gooding, a junior from Gilbert High School in Lexington, South Carolina, has established herself as one of the top Division II golfers in women’s college golf. She is currently ranked as the No. 9 women’s golfer in Division II, according to Clippd.
Early Success & High School Achievements
Before her college career at Anderson, Gooding was a three-time state champion (2016, 2017, and 2020), a four-time 3A Region Player of the Year, a four-time 3A All-State Team honoree, and the 3A Co-Player of the Year as a senior. She was also named to the North/South All-Star Team her senior year.
Career at Anderson University
Since arriving at Anderson, Gooding’s game has continued to reach new heights. Among her career accomplishments:
SAC Freshman of the Year – Becoming the second Trojan in as many years to earn the honor.
Record-setting debut – In her very first round at the SAC Championship, she fired a school-record 66 and went on to lead the event wire-to-wire.
All-SAC Honors – Consistently earning All-Conference recognition, including First Team All-South Atlantic Conference (2024) for her outstanding play.
Signature Victory
In 2023, Gooding teamed up with fellow Trojan Kennedy McGaha to win the 47th Carolinas Women’s Four-Ball Championship at Carolina Lakes Golf Club. The duo shot rounds of 67–69 (-8) and clinched the title on the first playoff hole, defeating defending champions Ava Romfo and Eleanor Gaunt.
She also earned All-Tournament honors at the Patsy Rendleman Invitational (October 2023), where she played a key role in leading Anderson to a team victory.
Interview Highlights
We recently sat down with Kennedy for an exclusive CGN interview, where she reflected on:
How she first got into golf through her parents and early coaches
Her historic run at Gilbert High, where she holds every girls' golf record
Why she felt a strong connection to Anderson University, both athletically and spiritually
Her favorite moments from college golf — including memorable team trips, strong team culture, and what it’s like practicing and competing with her closest teammates
Her goals for the rest of the season, including potential qualification for the U.S. Women’s Amateur and a nomination for the Arnold Palmer Cup
Player Profile
