Auburn Finishes Competition at Old Barnwell Derby Match Play: A Deep Dive into the Tigers’ Performance and Future Prospects

The Old Barnwell Derby Match Play is a prestigious event on the college golf calendar, drawing some of the top teams from around the country. For Auburn, a team with a rich history of success in college athletics, the tournament was yet another opportunity to showcase its golf program’s growing talent and competitiveness. Although the Tigers did not capture the top spot this year, their performance at the event has raised hopes for the future, as the team continues to build momentum toward the upcoming seasons.

In this article, we will break down Auburn’s performance in the Old Barnwell Derby Match Play, analyze the key moments and individual performances, and look ahead to how the experience will shape their preparation for the rest of the season. Through a combination of strategic play, individual heroics, and valuable lessons learned, Auburn’s performance offers both positives and areas for improvement, setting the stage for an exciting finish to their 2025 season.

The Old Barnwell Derby Match Play: A Tradition of Excellence

The Old Barnwell Derby Match Play is held annually at the Barnwell Golf Club, located in the heart of South Carolina. Known for its beautiful layout and challenging course, the venue provides a rigorous test for college golf teams, with its narrow fairways, undulating greens, and treacherous water hazards.

The format of the competition follows the traditional match play style, in which players compete head-to-head in a series of matches, with each hole worth one point. The team with the most points at the end of the match wins, making for an exciting and dynamic event. Unlike stroke play, where the lowest total score wins, match play tests individual and team strategies in unique ways. Players must manage their mental game, as one bad hole can alter the entire outcome of a match.

For Auburn, this format offered a chance to prove themselves against some of the best teams in the country, including perennial powerhouses like Florida, Alabama, and Georgia. These teams, all with impressive track records, presented significant challenges, but they also provided an opportunity for Auburn to gauge their progress and build confidence heading into future events.

Auburn’s Journey Through the Tournament: The Highs and Lows

As the tournament unfolded, Auburn’s players faced a variety of challenges. The team’s goal was to perform well in match play, which requires not only individual skill but also the ability to rally as a unit and support each other throughout the competition. Although Auburn didn’t secure the overall victory, their performance was a mixed bag of highs and lows, offering a glimpse into the potential of this young team.

Match 1: A Strong Start but Missed Opportunities

In their opening match, Auburn showed promise, with several players playing aggressive and strategic golf. Early on, it seemed like the Tigers might surprise some of the top teams, as they got off to a competitive start. Auburn’s standout performer in this match was junior Ryan Blanton, whose composure under pressure and steady ball striking kept the Tigers in the game. Blanton’s ability to stay even-keel despite some early challenges set a tone for the team, which showed resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity.

Despite their strong start, the Tigers struggled in key moments during the first round. A few key holes, including a double-bogey on the 13th hole, shifted the momentum in favor of their opponent. Though Auburn fought back valiantly, they were ultimately unable to finish strong, leading to a disappointing loss in their opening match.

However, not all was lost. Freshman standout Caleb Lee showed flashes of brilliance, especially in his back nine, where he managed to make a few key birdies under pressure. His growth throughout the tournament became one of the bright spots for the team, signaling a promising future for the Tigers’ program.

Match 2: Learning from Mistakes, Building Character

The second round of the competition was more challenging for Auburn, as they went up against a top-tier team in Georgia. The match presented a variety of difficulties, including tougher conditions on the course and stiffer competition. Auburn entered the round with a renewed focus, knowing that the path to victory was difficult but not impossible.

This round highlighted the Tigers’ mental fortitude as they navigated the difficult holes of the Barnwell course. Though they continued to struggle on the greens, with several putts sliding past the hole, there was evident improvement in their course management. Sophomore Eric Torres stood out with his aggressive approach, showing confidence in attacking difficult pin positions. His determined mindset was pivotal in keeping the team motivated, even when the match seemed to be slipping out of reach.

Auburn’s performance in match two showcased their resilience and desire to learn from their mistakes. They didn’t secure the win in this match either, but it was clear that the Tigers were gaining valuable experience, which would set the stage for future success.

Match 3: The Fight for Redemption

By the third round, Auburn found themselves facing a team they had already beaten in the past, South Carolina, and the Tigers were determined to leave an impression. With a strong sense of urgency, Auburn stepped up its game and began to deliver in ways they hadn’t before.

This time, it was senior captain Tom Davis who took charge of the team. His leadership on and off the course became the defining factor for Auburn’s performance in this match. Davis, who had been relatively quiet in the first two rounds, stepped up with a crucial birdie on the 16th hole, which helped shift the momentum in Auburn’s favor.

The match was still tight as it neared the final holes, but the Tigers’ focus and energy were palpable. They managed to close out strong, securing the win in what was their most well-rounded performance of the tournament. The victory gave Auburn a much-needed morale boost and demonstrated their ability to bounce back from previous setbacks.

Match 4: Final Push for Glory

In the final match, Auburn was looking to cap off their tournament with another victory, but the competition was fierce. Going up against Alabama, one of the tournament favorites, the Tigers knew they were in for a tough battle. Auburn’s players played with determination, trying to capitalize on any opening they could find. Sophomore Chris Gardner, known for his sharp short game, had some crucial up-and-downs that kept Auburn in contention. However, despite their best efforts, Auburn could not overcome the top-ranked team in the tournament.

While this final match ended in another loss, Auburn’s performance throughout the day was marked by significant improvement. Players who had struggled earlier in the tournament showed signs of growing confidence, and the team’s communication and support for one another were stronger than ever.

Individual Performances: Rising Stars and Standout Players

While the team didn’t finish at the top, individual players emerged as key contributors during the Old Barnwell Derby Match Play. Several players showed significant potential and laid the groundwork for future success.

Ryan Blanton: Blanton was the most consistent performer for Auburn, showcasing his experience and skill throughout the tournament. His steady play in tough moments was a critical factor for the Tigers and highlighted his leadership on the course. Despite a few rough holes, Blanton proved he can rise to the occasion when it matters most.
Caleb Lee: The freshman proved to be a revelation during the event. His ability to perform under pressure showed that he could be a future cornerstone of the Auburn program. Though his inexperience showed at times, his natural talent and willingness to learn quickly suggest a bright future for him in college golf.
Tom Davis: As a senior, Davis took on the leadership role during the third and final rounds. His ability to rally the team, coupled with his clutch play, made him a vital asset to the team’s overall performance.
Eric Torres: Torres demonstrated a high level of competitiveness, pushing through challenges and making key decisions that kept the team in play. His aggressive style of play paid dividends and will be crucial for the team’s success going forward.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Auburn Golf

The Old Barnwell Derby Match Play served as a valuable learning experience for Auburn’s golfers. While they didn’t capture the top prize, their performance at such a prestigious event demonstrated that they are on the right path. With young players like Caleb Lee and solid upperclassmen leadership from Ryan Blanton and Tom Davis, Auburn’s program is primed for growth and success in the coming years.

As they continue their spring season, the Tigers can use the lessons learned from the tournament to fine-tune their skills and further develop their strategies. If they can continue to focus on consistency and mental toughness, the future looks bright for Auburn golf, with future tournaments and championships well within reach.