Isabelle McCauley has become the face of golf in the state of Minnesota. 

While a senior at Simley High School, she stood out at the annual Minnesota Golf Champions Tournament last fall. She put together rounds of 66.71 and 70 for a 54-hole total of 9-under 207 to become the first woman to ever win the event. 

McCauley had to miss the Minnesota State Championship tournament because she became the first ever Minnesotan to qualify for the U.S. Women’s Open, one of the Ladies Professional Golf Association’s (LPGA) four major tournaments.

Throughout the high school season, McCauley received a medal ten times and never finished worse than second in an event. In 2021, she was ranked as the No. 1 high school girls’ player in the state.

McCauley attributes much of her golfing knowledge to her father. As a 6-year-old, her father would take her to Rich Valley Golf Club to work on her golf game, doling out Skittles and Starburst candy as rewards for good shots. 

Earlier this month, McCauley was awarded Ms. Minnesota Golf, an award annually given to one female high school senior based on performance on the golf course, academic achievement and strength of character.

“Her resume is extensive, highlighted with her qualifying for the U.S. Women’s Open last summer,” Gophers head coach Rhyll Brismead said in McCauley’s player bio. “She is currently ranked eighth in the nation for the class of 2022 and will be the most highly ranked athlete this program has ever signed.”

McCauley stated in her bio she chose the University of Minnesota because of the amazing team, culture and coaches.