UTRGV Vaqueros Golf Poised for Breakthrough Spring Season
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) Vaqueros men’s golf team concluded a successful fall season, demonstrating significant potential for a standout spring performance.
The Vaqueros experienced a period of growth this fall, building momentum despite not consistently achieving peak performance. “We had a lot of really good rounds,individually and as a team. It didn’t seem like we put a whole tournament together, so I think going into the spring we are really excited about that. Once all the guys get hot and show up for an entire tournament as a whole, I think a lot of good things are ahead for the men’s program,” said Head Coach Brett Moore.
The team finished the fall with a solid 288.4 team average, highlighted by a second-place finish at the Monterrey Collegiate Classic. Notably, the vaqueros carded even or under par scores in two of their four fall competitions. Freshman Jorge Martin Sampedro made an immediate impact, setting a new program record with a remarkable seven-under 64 in the final round of the JT Poston Invitational. As a team, UTRGV also achieved a significant milestone, posting a second-round 275 at the Trinity Forest Invitational – tied for the third-lowest team round in program history.
The arrival of newcomers Rodolphe Cicala, Gabriel Dulon Villoslada, and brock Porter has injected fresh talent into the program. “Rodolphe, Gabriel, jorge, and Brock all played at some capacity and contributed this fall,” Moore explained. “It’s a testament to them on the level they brought when they got here. It’s been impressive. It pushes everyone on the team.” These additions have fostered a competitive environment, driving overall improvement.
The depth of the Vaqueros roster is a key strength. Cicala,Villoslada,Sampedro,Esteban Gonzalez,and Emilio gil Leyva all maintained scoring averages around 72,while Porter averaged a 74. This parity has presented challenges in determining the optimal lineup. “It’s been tough,” Moore admitted. “We have five guys that are averaging around 72 or better, so we are the deepest we have been since I have gotten here. It’s been tough to get in the van or plane, that’s without a doubt. It makes qualifying that much harder, but at that point, we are only as good as our sixth player. I think this year we have a talented bench.” The competition extends beyond those traveling, with players at home actively pushing those in the lineup to elevate their game.
Several standout performances defined the fall season. A 13-under par second round at SMU, Sampedro’s exceptional rounds of 63 and 64, and two top-five finishes from Rodolphe were among the highlights. Moore emphasized the need for consistency, stating, “there was a lot of good, but we just need to get in sequence.”
Despite areas for refinement, the Vaqueros have gained a clear understanding of their capabilities. “The biggest takeaway from the fall is that we can, that we are capable,” moore asserted. “We didn’t play super-hot all fall but we are capable of playing really well in the spring. I think I would rather have it that. I would rather figure out our lineup and our team in the fall and realize that we are capable and move to the spring and see what we can do.”
The upcoming winter break presents a crucial opportunity for continued growth. Moore stressed the importance of dedication during this period, noting, “The writing is on the wall. You better work hard this offseason because the guys that didn’t make every tournament in the fall is going to work hard during the break to get a spot in the spring. I think everyone knows that if you put the work then you will have an opportunity or you will take someone’s opportunity.”
The Vaqueros are focused on translating their fall experiences into a successful spring season, confident in their potential to achieve significant results.
