Charlie Woods, 16-year-old son of golfing icon Tiger Woods, has taken a surprising step by committing to play collegiate golf at Florida State University. The announcement, made on Tuesday, places Charlie at the center of NCAA men’s golf as part of the Seminoles’ 2027 recruiting class, signaling an exciting new phase in his developing career.
Charlie’s Rise from Junior Competitor to Key Seminoles Addition
Distinguished by his own talent rather than his family name, Charlie Woods has made a name for himself on the junior golf scene. As a junior at The Benjamin School in Palm Beach, Florida, he currently ranks 21st in the American Junior Golf Association standings. His recent achievements have helped establish him as one of the country’s top young amateur golfers.
One of Charlie’s breakthrough moments occurred in 2025 when he won the Team TaylorMade Invitational, a prominent AJGA event. He also had a strong showing at the Junior PGA Championship, finishing tied for ninth place, performances that significantly boosted his national ranking. In November of last year, he shot a final-round 68 at the Florida High School Athletic Association’s Class 1A State Championship, securing the title for The Benjamin School for the second time since 2023, demonstrating his capacity to excel in high-pressure situations.
A New Direction for the Woods Legacy in College Golf
Unlike his father, Tiger Woods, who chose Stanford University before turning pro in 1996 and whose daughter Sam currently attends the same school, Charlie has elected to stay closer to home by selecting Florida State University. This decision begins a distinct chapter for the Woods name in college golf and reflects a personal path separate from his father’s.
Florida State’s golf team has shown strong competitive progress, finishing as runner-up in the 2024 NCAA Championships and consistently competing at the top level nationally. With the addition of Charlie alongside another top recruit, Miles Russell, Florida State is assembling a formidable team targeted at national success.
The Broader Impact of Charlie Woods Joining Florida State
Securing Charlie Woods’ commitment enhances Florida State University’s golf program beyond just athletic skill—it significantly raises the program’s and the entire athletics department’s profile. Charlie’s pedigree and the media attention that follows him are expected to benefit multiple sports programs at the university.
Florida State’s golf program is known for cultivating elite players, including major champion Brooks Koepka, PGA Tour winner Daniel Berger, and promising player Luke Clanton. Charlie’s arrival continues this tradition, potentially boosting the Seminoles’ recruiting pull, increasing national exposure, and creating new opportunities tied to name, image, and likeness agreements.
“Excited to announce my commitment to play golf at Florida State University – go Noles!”
– Charlie Woods, Golfer
