The 2025-26 Men's Golf season for the Rainbow Warriors saw them compete in 10 tournaments, achieving their best-ever finish at the Big West Championship, tying for fourth. Under head coach Scott Simpson, the team recorded its fifth-best scoring average despite missing key players Anson Cabello and Josh Hayashida for much of the season. Dane Watanabe emerged as a standout, leading the team with a 72.97 scoring average and setting a record with a 7-under 65 at the conference tournament. The team also performed well at the inaugural Pearl at Kalauao Invitational, posting a total of 4-under 860. Significant accolades included multiple players earning Academic All-District honors and Cabello competing in the PGA Tour's Sony Open.

By the Numbers
  • Team's scoring average: 292.15 (5th best in history)
  • Dane Watanabe鈥檚 scoring average: 72.97 with 9 rounds at par or better
Yes, But

Though the team had a successful season, the absence of key players like Cabello and Hayashida hindered potentially better performances. Their impact could have significantly altered team dynamics and outcomes in tournaments.

State of Play
  • Rainbow Warriors finished 4th at the Big West Championship, highest in program history.
  • Cumulatively, the team tied for the lowest season score-to-par in several tournaments.
What's Next

As the team transitions out of the Big West Conference, there could be opportunities to strengthen their roster and compete in new environments. Continued development of current players and recruiting efforts could set the stage for future success.

Bottom Line

The 2025-26 season marks a pivotal moment for the Rainbow Warriors, showcasing resilience and potential amidst challenges. The growth of individuals like Watanabe and Cabello suggests a promising future, even as the program enters a new chapter.