Exciting New Additions for Pepperdine Men’s Golf 2026 Recruitment Class

MALIBU, Calif. – The Pepperdine men’s golf team is set to welcome three exceptional junior golfers for the 2026 season, as announced by Head Coach Michael Beard on Wednesday. This stellar recruitment class, featuring Ayden Fynaut, Luke Ringkamp, and Kailer Stone, marks a significant milestone in the program’s history.

Elite Class Recognition

Pepperdine University has emerged as a powerhouse in collegiate golf, securing a spot in the top 10 of national recruiting class rankings. The Waves are currently ranked No. 8 by the Golf Channel and College Golf Commits, making this recruiting class not only the best in Pepperdine’s history but also one of the most impressive nationwide.

Insights from Coach Beard

“All three players we have signing for 2026 are great players with strong resumes,” said Coach Beard. “They will be tremendous assets to our program and Pepperdine University as a whole.” He noted that each athlete has proven their elite status in junior golf, having all previously won American Junior Golf Association (AJGA) events and currently holding the top three rankings in California according to the TUGR and Golf Channel rankings.

Meet the Rising Stars

Ayden Fynaut – Fresno, California

Ranked No. 9 in the Rolex Junior Golf Rankings and No. 2 in California, Ayden Fynaut is experiencing a breakout 2025 season. A Rolex Second-Team Junior All-American, Fynaut has finished in the top 10 nine times this year, capturing two victories. His impressive resume includes:

• Top 8 finish at the US Junior Amateur.
• Fourth Place at the Junior PGA Championship.
• Two wins in AJGA events this year.

With a total of 36 top-10 finishes and 12 career wins, Fynaut expressed enthusiasm about joining Pepperdine, saying, “The amazing golf program and the vibing atmosphere make it feel like home.”

Luke Ringkamp – Palm Desert, California

The top recruit in California as per the Golf Channel and Rolex Junior Golf Rankings, Luke Ringkamp brings a wealth of talent and experience. He earned Rolex Junior All-America Second Team honors and is currently ranked No. 9 in TUGR’s class of 2026 rankings. Highlights from his 2025 season include:

• Sixth place finishes at both the Southern California Golf Association Amateur and Junior Players Championship.
• An AJGA win at the Jim Click Automotive Championship.

With 36 top-10 finishes and 13 tournament victories to his name, Ringkamp chose Pepperdine for its experienced coaching staff, stunning campus views, and progressive path to a professional career. “It already feels like home,” he said.

Kailer Stone – Alameda, California

Kailer Stone currently ranks No. 26 in TUGR World Junior Rankings and No. 9 in the class of 2026. Known for his consistency, Stone boasts 32 top-10 finishes and seven amateur wins, including back-to-back NorCal Junior Championships. His significant accomplishments include:

• A ninth-place finish at the Junior PGA Championships.
• Reaching the round of 16 in stroke play at the US Junior Amateur Championships.

Kailer sought a college experience that would provide support and a family atmosphere, finding everything he desired at Pepperdine: “It has the facilities, coaching, community, and courses that will help me grow.”

Future Prospects for Pepperdine Men’s Golf

As the Waves gear up to integrate Fynaut, Ringkamp, and Stone into their lineup, they will be joining an established team currently ranked No. 15 in the Bushnell/Golfweek Coaches’ Poll. While the team will graduate notable players such as Mahanth Chirravuri, Brady Siravo, and Joshua Koo, the wealth of talent returning should make the 2026 season an exciting one for Pepperdine men’s golf.

About Pepperdine Men’s Golf

The Pepperdine men’s golf program has a storied history, having clinched the NCAA Championship title in both 1997 and 2021. With 24 WCC championships, 28 NCAA Regional appearances, and 14 NCAA Championship qualifications, Pepperdine has produced 30 All-American selections and currently features four active members on the PGA TOUR as of 2025.

Conclusion

The upcoming season promises to be pivotal for Pepperdine men’s golf, and with the addition of these talented recruits, the Waves are poised for a competitive edge in college golf. For continued updates, fans can visit the Pepperdine Athletics website.