Top-Ranked Tigers Compete at Valspar Collegiate
The No. 1 Auburn men’s golf team returns to competition March 23-24 at The Floridian in Palm City, Florida. The Tigers seek a third trophy this spring at the Valspar Collegiate.
Coach and course
Head coach Nick Clinard praised the Floridian course as an excellent test. He warned the 36-18 format on Monday will demand mental, emotional and physical stamina.
Clinard noted many of the nation’s best teams will be in the field. He said Auburn must play its best golf to contend on the final day.
Past Valspar results
Auburn has two strong past finishes at the event. In 2019 the Tigers were runner-up at 19-under, led by seniors Trace Crowe and Jacob Solomon, who both finished inside the top 10.
Last season Jackson Koivun shot 11-under to finish among the top four. Josiah Gilbert carded 3-under and tied for 25th.
Roster and recent form
This week’s Auburn lineup includes Jackson Koivun and Josiah Gilbert. They are joined by junior Cayden Pope, sophomore Billy Davis and freshman Jake Albert.
At the Hayt, Auburn won the team title at 28-under. Koivun was medalist at 11-under, continuing strong recent play.
Against ranked opponents this season, Auburn holds a 37-15-1 record (.708).
Field and format
The tournament features a deep field, including at least 10 teams ranked in the top 25. Defending Valspar champion Texas enters at No. 6.
- No. 6 Texas (defending champion)
- No. 7 Arkansas
- No. 8 Arizona State
- No. 10 Texas Tech
- No. 13 Pepperdine
- No. 14 Oklahoma
- No. 17 North Carolina
- No. 23 Duke
- No. 24 USC
- Also competing: Augusta, Florida State, Houston, Rice, Texas A&M, Wake Forest
Schedule and pairings
Monday features 36 holes, beginning with a 7:30 a.m. CT shotgun start. Auburn will play alongside Arkansas, Florida State and Houston.
Live scoring for the 2026 Valspar Collegiate is available at scoreboard.clippd.com.
Filmogaz.com will monitor Auburn’s progress as the top-ranked Tigers compete at the Valspar Collegiate.
