Jace Long, assistant coach for LSU Men鈥檚 Golf, has been named a finalist for the prestigious 2026 Jan Strickland Outstanding Assistant Coach Award. This award honors assistant coaches at various NCAA divisions who excel in guiding student-athletes both academically and athletically. Long is one of five finalists in the Division I category, competing against coaches from Virginia, North Carolina, Arkansas, and Texas Tech. Under his guidance, LSU has achieved a remarkable seventh ranking and multiple victories during his second season. Long's contributions have significantly elevated the program's performance and recognition.

By the Numbers
  • LSU currently ranks 7th nationally via Scoreboard Powered by Clippd.
  • In Long's second season, the team secured 3 victories and 5 additional top-three finishes.
Yes, But

While Long鈥檚 nomination is a notable achievement for LSU, competition for the award is fierce, with distinguished candidates from top programs. Evaluating the success of Long's coaching style against the backdrop of these other finalists highlights the varying approaches to athlete development.

State of Play
  • Three LSU players are ranked within the top 70 nationally according to Scoreboard Powered by Clippd.
  • Recent achievements include multiple All-America and academic honors for the team and individual players.
What's Next

As the selection for the finalists approaches, LSU's program will be monitored closely for its impact on the upcoming competitions. Long's recognition may also influence recruiting efforts as the program seeks to attract new talent.

Bottom Line

Jace Long's recognition as a finalist underscores his significant role in shaping a competitive and academically successful LSU Men鈥檚 Golf program. His efforts reflect both personal achievement and the broader success of the team during a pivotal season.