The release of Golfweek’s preseason rankings for the 2025–26 women’s collegiate golf season has already set the stage for a thrilling campaign. At the top, Stanford once again finds itself in familiar territory as the nation’s number one team.
They are followed closely by Oregon and Texas, two programs that have steadily built reputations as perennial contenders. Behind them, USC, Arizona State, and Duke all occupy positions inside the top six, confirming their place among the most powerful lineups in the country.
Beyond these established giants, other teams such as LSU, Northwestern, Arkansas, and Vanderbilt also appear within the top tier, showing just how much depth women’s collegiate golf has to offer this season. Their inclusion speaks not only to recruiting strength but also to the growing competitiveness across conferences nationwide. The rankings serve as a barometer of expectations, creating a clear narrative of who has the most to prove and who is defending their reputation.
Here’s the complete Golfweek Preseason Rankings list:
1 – Stanford
2 – Oregon
3 – Texas
4 – USC
5 – Arizona State
6 – Duke
7 – Texas A&M
8 – LSU
9 – Northwestern
10 – Arkansas
11 – Vanderbilt
12 – Florida
13 – Wake Forest
14 – South Carolina
15 – Ohio State
16 – North Carolina
17 – Virginia
18 – Florida State
19 – Auburn
20 – Oklahoma State
21 – Mississippi State
22 – Michigan State
23 – Ole Miss
24 – TCU
25 – UCLA
26 – Arizona
27 – SMU
28 – Iowa State
29 – N.C. State
30 – Kansas
A Look at the Powerhouses
Stanford’s hold on the top spot comes as no surprise. The Cardinal have been a dominant force for years, thanks to a pipeline of elite recruits and a culture that prioritizes consistency and winning. The expectations for this season are no different, as Stanford looks to defend its legacy with another championship push.
Oregon and Texas, however, appear poised to challenge Stanford’s supremacy. Oregon’s surge to number two demonstrates how their program has developed into a national contender, backed by strong performances and impressive depth.
Texas, on the other hand, has a long tradition of producing talent, and with its current roster, the Longhorns are determined to show that they belong in the conversation for a national title. These programs collectively highlight the ever-intensifying arms race at the top of the rankings.
Contenders in the Chase
USC and Arizona State, both staples of Pac-12 golf excellence, enter the year with aspirations of moving past the semifinal barrier and contending for the crown. Their rankings inside the top five demonstrate the level of stability and ambition that defines their programs.
Duke’s position at number six is particularly significant, as it signals the Blue Devils’ ascent into a space traditionally dominated by their western counterparts. The program has built steadily over recent years, and this season may provide the breakthrough they have long been waiting for.
Just behind them, LSU and Northwestern round out the upper echelon. LSU’s rise reflects a program that has steadily developed into a consistent national presence, while Northwestern has quietly but effectively assembled one of the strongest teams in the Midwest.
Players Who Could Define the Season
While team rankings dominate the preseason conversation, individual brilliance often defines the season. Among the names to watch, none stands out more than Mirabel Ting, who recently captured the Annika Award, WGCA Player of the Year honors, and was named Golfweek’s National Golfer of the Year.
Her remarkable resume also includes the distinction of holding the second spot in the World Amateur Golf Ranking before turning professional. Ting’s performances have set a new benchmark for what is possible in the college game, and her influence will undoubtedly linger even as she transitions beyond the amateur circuit.
Kiara Romero of Oregon is already on every watch list after climbing to the top of the World Amateur Golf Rankings and posting record-setting rounds in her first two years. Stanford’s Meja Örtengren adds international pedigree, with wins both in Europe and in her freshman collegiate season, making her one of the most balanced young players in the field.
Texas features a powerful duo in Farah O’Keefe and Lauren Kim, both ranked among the world’s top amateurs and consistent performers at the NCAA level. At LSU, Rocio Tejedo and Francesca Fiorellini provide the Tigers with a youthful but dangerous pairing that could push the program into deeper postseason contention. Together, these players represent the blend of international talent and homegrown development that makes this season especially compelling.
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