Naples, Florida – Noah Kent Announces Transfer to Florida Gators
Noah Kent, the 2024 U.S. Amateur runner-up and sophomore golfer from Iowa, is transferring to the University of Florida. He made this announcement on Saturday, marking a significant step in his collegiate golfing career.
Who Is Noah Kent?
Noah Kent hails from Naples, Florida, and recently competed as a sophomore for the Iowa Hawkeyes. He gained recognition this past year as the runner-up in the prestigious U.S. Amateur tournament, establishing himself as a promising talent in the world of collegiate golf.
What Are the Details of His Transfer?
Kent entered the NCAA transfer portal earlier this month before deciding on Florida. He will join head coach J.C. Deacon and the team that captured the national championship in 2023. However, due to NCAA regulations, Kent will not be eligible to play for the Gators until the 2025-26 season. He plans to complete his current sophomore season at Iowa before making the transition.
Why Did He Choose Florida?
Though Kent did not specify his reasons for the transfer, it is widely believed that joining a formidable program like Florida, which has a strong competitive history, offers an ideal environment for his growth as a golfer. Florida’s team also ranks as the second-best signing class in the country for 2025, indicating a commitment to attracting and developing top talent.
When Will Kent Compete Again?
While Kent cannot compete for Florida until the 2025-26 season, he has already showcased his skills this fall, placing in the top 13 in all four tournaments he participated in. His best performance was a tie for fifth place at the Fighting Irish Classic. Additionally, he has a scheduled tee time at Augusta National Golf Club this spring, a significant opportunity for any golfer.
What’s Next for Kent and Florida Golf?
As Kent transitions to Florida, he will effectively become the fourth member of the Gators’ 2025 signing class, which includes other talented golfers like Parker Bell, Mathew Kress, and Jack Turner. With upcoming NCAA roster limits, there is expected to be significant roster turnover in college golf before the 2025-26 season starts, meaning Kent’s inclusion could be part of a larger reshaping of the program.
Conclusion
Noah Kent’s transfer to Florida represents an exciting new chapter in his golfing journey. His decision is poised to leave a lasting impact on the Gators’ future as they prepare for a highly competitive environment in collegiate golf. As Kent wraps up his time at Iowa, the golfing world will be keenly watching to see how his skills develop in preparation for his eventual debut with a new team.
