AJ Newell

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.