NEWBERG, Ore. -- The George Fox women's golf program may enter the 2025–26 season with a different look — but the championship expectations remain the same. 

Over the past 19 years, the Bruins have captured 15 consecutive Northwest Conference titles, nine NCAA trophies, one National Championship, and produced multiple All-Americans and National Players of the Year. The standard is firmly set at the highest level.

This year's roster follows the graduation of five seniors—four of whom competed at the last two National Championships — including three All-Americans, two Individual National Champions, and a two-time National Player of the Year and a National Freshman Player of the Year. It was one of the most decorated classes in program history.

Head Coach MaryJo McCloskey acknowledges the challenge of replacing the gaps left by the departing seniors, but isn't calling it a rebuilding year. 

"I understand why people might think this is a rebuilding season," McCloskey said. "I see new individuals stepping up as we continue our pursuit of excellence."

The roster's experience is anchored by three juniors. Reyna Naranjo, a two-time All-Conference selection who played on the 2024 National Championship team, will serve as captain this season, has worked on her game this summer. Division II transfer Sofia Itziar Ayesa, has also shown steady improvement throughout fall practices. Another junior transfer, Abby Matelski, has quickly made an impression. 

"She's completely embraced our coaching philosophy and is working as hard as anyone," McCloskey said. "I think she's going to surprise a lot of people with her consistency."

Behind the juniors are two sophomores poised to make a major impact. Katelyn Lam was a First Team All-Conference selection as a freshman and played at Nationals in 2025, while Samara D'Silva gained experience in multiple events last year and made significant progress over the summer.

"They have both really grown," McCloskey said. "Katelyn's confidence continues to build, and Samara's talent is shining through. I expect both of them to have outstanding seasons."

The team's new freshman, Ashlyn Johnson, has also impressed in early practices. 

"She can play," McCloskey said. "She is learning quickly about what it means to compete as part of a championship team, and her game keeps improving every week."

The Bruins kick off the season with a trip to California for the National Fall Preview, where they'll look to prove that their No. 6 national ranking in the Mizuno WGCA Coaches Poll is no fluke. From there, it's brief stops in Washington for the Division II Saint Martin's Invite and Lake Oswego, Ore. for the NWC Fall Classic, which Fox aims to win for their 37th conference tournament. 

And if any team can keep the consistency going despite roster changes, McCloskey believes it's this one.

"This team is driven and resilient," McCloskey said. "They've embraced the standard of our program, and their commitment to excellence gives me great confidence in what's ahead. I can't wait to watch as our season unfolds."

The Bruin fall season begins with the National Fall Preview on September 6-7.