AJ Newell was named head coach of the University of South Florida women’s golf program on June 3, 2024, returning to her hometown of Tampa Bay to lead the Bulls. A former NCAA All-American and LPGA Tour professional, Newell arrived at USF after a highly successful three-year tenure as an assistant coach at the University of Michigan. While with the Wolverines, she helped guide the program to three consecutive NCAA Regional appearances, Michigan’s first-ever Big Ten Championship in 2022, and a trip to the NCAA Championship Finals that same season. She also served as interim head coach during the spring of 2022, playing a key leadership role during one of the most accomplished seasons in program history.
As a player, Newell starred at the University of Tennessee from 2012–15, earning Women’s Golf Coaches Association All-America honors and helping lead the Volunteers to multiple NCAA postseason runs, including the 2015 NCAA Finals. She went on to a five-year professional career, competing on the Symetra Tour from 2016–20 and making multiple appearances on the LPGA Tour in 2018 before a back injury ended her playing career. Prior to entering collegiate coaching, Newell served as a golf professional at Pelican Golf Club and spent more than a decade volunteering with youth golf initiatives in the Tampa area. Known for her player-development mindset, recruiting ability, and deep ties to the region, Newell brings elite competitive experience and strong local roots as she leads USF women’s golf into its next chapter.
