Buckeyes Claim 19th Therese Hession Buckeye Invitational Title

COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Ohio State women’s golf team added another chapter to its storied history this weekend, claiming its 19th title at the Therese Hession Buckeye Invitational—a tournament that has become as much a symbol of the program’s excellence as it is a tribute to one of its most iconic figures. Over two days of intense competition on their home turf at the Scarlet Course, the Buckeyes proved why they remain one of the most respected programs in collegiate golf.

From consistent ball striking to poised putting under pressure, the Buckeyes showed every quality required of champions. But this wasn’t just about golf. This was about legacy. About culture. About honoring a name etched deeply in Ohio State lore: Therese Hession.

A Title with Deep Meaning

The Therese Hession Buckeye Invitational isn’t just another event on the NCAA calendar. Formerly known as the Lady Buckeye Invitational, it was renamed in 2021 to honor Therese Hession, the legendary coach who led the Buckeyes for 30 years. Hession guided Ohio State to 11 Big Ten Championships and 17 NCAA appearances, elevating the program to national prominence. Her commitment to the development of young women in golf and in life created a foundation of excellence that continues to thrive.

For the Buckeyes to claim their 19th title in an event bearing her name carries immense significance. It’s a testament not only to their present strength but to the continued impact of Hession’s legacy.

“This one means everything,” said head coach Lisa Strom, who took over the reins from Hession. “To win a tournament that’s so personal to our program—on a course that Therese helped build and shape—makes this even more special.”

Mastering the Scarlet Course

The Scarlet Course, designed by the legendary Dr. Alister MacKenzie and later renovated under Jack Nicklaus, presents one of the toughest tests in college golf. The par-72, 6,319-yard layout demands strategic precision, especially with its narrow fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and notoriously tricky greens.

“It’s a course you can’t overpower,” said sophomore standout Sophie Zhang-Murphy. “You have to think your way around every hole. Knowing this course inside and out was a huge advantage for us.”

Ohio State capitalized on that familiarity. Across three rounds, the Buckeyes displayed a balanced attack, avoiding big mistakes while taking advantage of scoring opportunities when they presented themselves. The team shot rounds of 294, 291, and 286, finishing at +5 overall, five shots clear of second-place Michigan State.

Individual Brilliance, Team Depth

One of the biggest takeaways from the tournament was the team’s depth. While several teams relied on one or two stars to carry the weight, Ohio State showcased a complete lineup where every golfer contributed.

Senior Lauren Peter, playing in her final home invitational, led by example. Her second-round 68 (-4) was the low round of the tournament and vaulted her into contention. She would eventually finish tied for second overall, just one shot behind medalist Samantha Chan of Michigan State.

“It was emotional walking up 18 knowing this was my last time playing this course in college,” said Peter. “But I focused on staying present, hitting fairways and greens. I’m just grateful we could pull off the win as a team.”

Behind her, Zhang-Murphy and junior Alyssa Montgomery posted top-15 finishes. Freshman Hailey Snyder showed incredible poise, rebounding from a tough first round to post a final-round 70, helping cement the Buckeyes’ lead. Even those who didn’t finish high on the leaderboard provided crucial counting scores that made all the difference.

A Coaching Staff Built for Success

Credit must also be given to Coach Lisa Strom and assistant coach Megan Mingo, whose leadership has allowed the program to maintain its elite standard. Strom, a former All-American at Ohio State and LPGA player, has kept the values instilled by Hession while adding her own energy and modern sensibilities.

“Coach Strom brings a competitive fire that’s contagious,” said Montgomery. “She holds us to a high standard but also encourages us to have fun and be ourselves.”

Mingo, meanwhile, is praised by the players for her attention to detail in course strategy and short-game coaching. Together, they’ve created a culture where players are not only expected to succeed—but are fully equipped to do so.

A Competitive Field, A Statement Win

This wasn’t a soft field. The 2025 Buckeye Invitational featured 12 programs, including five top-50 ranked squads: Michigan State, Illinois, Purdue, Maryland, and Indiana. That Ohio State emerged victorious against such a competitive lineup makes this win even more impressive.

Michigan State, led by Samantha Chan, stayed close throughout the weekend but faltered late. Illinois, meanwhile, posted a final-round 289 to surge into third place, while Purdue, who many considered a dark horse, struggled with putting and finished fifth.

“This win puts the country on notice,” said Big Ten Network analyst and former LPGA pro Karen Stupples. “Ohio State has all the ingredients of a team that could make a deep NCAA run.”

Building Toward the Postseason

Now, with momentum on their side, Ohio State turns its attention to the Big Ten Championships, scheduled for April 26–28 at the Bulle Rock Golf Club in Maryland. The Buckeyes haven’t won the conference since 2014—a drought they’re hungry to end.

“We’ve talked all season about peaking at the right time,” said Strom. “This week showed me we’re trending exactly where we need to be. But we know there’s more work to do.”

Several players echoed that sentiment, acknowledging that while the home win was sweet, the ultimate goal remains a Big Ten title—and potentially a national championship run.

Honoring Therese Hession the Right Way

Perhaps the most touching moment of the weekend came during Sunday’s trophy presentation, when Therese Hession herself addressed the crowd. Now serving in an advisory role to the athletic department, Hession reflected on the growth of the program and expressed pride in the direction it’s headed.

“This team embodies everything we tried to build here,” said Hession, her voice cracking with emotion. “They work hard, support each other, and compete with class. To see them win this event—it just means the world to me.”

Hession then handed the trophy to Strom and the team, triggering an eruption of cheers and an emotional embrace between mentor and protégé.

“I wouldn’t be here without Therese,” said Strom. “She gave me a shot as a player, believed in me as a coach, and continues to guide me today. This win is for her.”

Fan Support and Community Pride

Ohio State fans showed up in strong numbers, lining the fairways and offering loud support throughout the weekend. Parents, alumni, students, and local golf enthusiasts packed the gallery, creating a festival-like atmosphere not often seen in college golf.

“Playing in front of our home fans—there’s nothing like it,” said Snyder. “You feel that energy, and it pushes you to perform.”

The athletic department also hosted a Therese Hession Celebration Dinner on Saturday night, honoring her impact while raising funds for the women’s golf program. Over 200 guests attended, including several former players, LPGA professionals, and university officials.

What’s Next?

With the postseason looming, Ohio State is focused, confident, and hungry. The team will head into the Big Ten Championships with a clear identity: a deep roster, strong coaching, and a blend of experience and youth that makes them a formidable opponent.

If their performance at the Therese Hession Buckeye Invitational is any indication, the Buckeyes are primed for something special. And they’re doing it the Buckeye way—with class, grit, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

Final Team Leaderboard – 2025 Therese Hession Buckeye Invitational

Team	Total Score
Ohio State	+5 (871)
Michigan State	+10 (876)
Illinois	+13 (879)
Maryland	+17 (883)
Purdue	+22 (888)

Individual Buckeye Scores

• Lauren Peter – 69-68-74 (T2, -5)
• Sophie Zhang-Murphy – 73-72-71 (T7, E)
• Alyssa Montgomery – 74-73-72 (T11, +3)
• Hailey Snyder – 78-73-70 (T15, +5)
• Jenna White – 75-75-74 (T20, +8)

Conclusion

The 19th Therese Hession Buckeye Invitational wasn’t just a win on the scoreboard—it was a statement of purpose. For Ohio State women’s golf, it marked a moment of affirmation that the past, present, and future are in harmony. The Buckeyes aren’t just playing to win—they’re playing to honor a legacy, to build something greater, and to make Columbus proud.

As the postseason approaches, the Scarlet and Gray have never looked sharper—or more united.