The spring season is coming fast for the University of North Georgia’s (UNG) athletic teams.
With two teams coming off historic NCAA Division II postseason runs and the softball team entering its first season under new head coach Brooke O’Hair, the Nighthawks are poised for another thrilling season.
“We are so proud of where our spring programs are and look forward to seeing them continue competing at the highest levels,” said Athletic Director Mary Rob Plunkett. “Our consistent excellence is a testament to the dedication of our student-athletes and coaches. We are incredibly grateful for the continued support of Nighthawk Nation.”
Men’s Golf
Coming off a national runner-up finish in May and a No. 2 national ranking in the fall, head coach Bryson Worley’s men’s golf team is ready to contend for national supremacy once again. Returning players Ethan Day, Myles Jones, Hughes Threlkeld, and Jack Vajda were key contributors to the historic 2024 season and are expected to lead the charge in 2025.
Women’s Golf
The women’s golf team, under the direction of head coach Sierra Campbell, will look to build on a strong fall performance that earned them a No. 11 national ranking. Freshman Ellie Jane Riner, sophomore Abby Franks, and seniors Ellie Rippee and Jadin Ware will be key players as the team aims to make waves this spring.
Both golf teams will kick off their spring season on February 10-11 at the Lincoln Memorial University Spring Kickoff at St. Johns Country Club in St. Augustine, Florida. UNG will also host the Peach Belt Conference (PBC) Golf Championships for both men and women from April 18-20 at Forest Hills Golf Club in Augusta, Georgia.
Women’s Tennis
The women’s tennis team is coming off its first-ever NCAA national semifinal appearance and will look to build on that momentum this spring. With seniors Angelina Linnikova, Ashley Moinard, and Carolina Reis returning from that historic group, and junior Emily Bush joining the team as a transfer from Young Harris College, the Nighthawks are primed for another successful season. The team will start its spring season at 10 a.m. on February 2 against Lincoln Memorial University.
Men’s Tennis
After a strong NCAA tournament showing last season, the men’s tennis team, also led by head coach Kent Norsworthy, will open the spring season at 10 a.m. on February 2 against Lincoln Memorial.
Softball
Under new leadership from head coach Brooke O’Hair, the softball team enters its first season with high expectations. O’Hair, who tallied 530 career wins over 18 years at Mississippi College, brings a wealth of experience to UNG, including nine NCAA postseason appearances and two Super Regional berths. The Nighthawks will open their season from January 31 to February 2 with games against Rollins, Lubbock Christian, Florida Tech, Barry, and Union College at an event in Gulf Shores, Alabama.
Baseball
Head coach Tom Cantrell’s baseball team kicks off the season from January 31 to February 2 with a four-game home series against Lincoln Memorial. After finishing the 2024 season with a 32-19 record, including a 17-10 mark in the Peach Belt Conference (PBC), the Nighthawks are ready to build on that success.
