Freshman golfer Kihei Akina was named to the United States Arnold Palmer Cup team on May 5 by the organizers of the 2026 Arnold Palmer Cup.
Akina’s selection is notable as he becomes one of only four Brigham Young University golfers ever chosen for this event and is the first freshman in program history to be selected. He will represent the United States at Tralee Golf Club in County Kerry, Ireland, from July 3-5, competing in a Ryder Cup-style format against an international squad.
“It is a pretty cool thing to be a part of such an awesome and historic tournament,” Akina said. “It’s always cool when you have the chance to be able to represent and play for your country, so I’m excited to represent in Ireland. Mr. Palmer was one of the greatest golfers to live, and what he’s done for the game and this tournament is really cool to see. I just feel really grateful and excited.”
Akina earned his spot by ranking No. 6 on NCAA Scoreboard player rankings with a scoring average of 68.92 over twelve events this season, making him one of eleven automatic qualifiers among American collegiate players. One additional player joined as a coach’s pick, rounding out twelve representatives from U.S. colleges.
“I was privileged enough to serve on the GCAA committee when the Arnold Palmer Cup was put in place,” head coach Bruce Brockbank said. “Anything that has Arnold Palmer’s name attached to it is special. This is the premiere US-international competition, so to be selected on that team, you have to be one of the best college golfers in the country. That is Kihei. I’m super proud of him and the golfer he has become. He will do great representing our country and BYU. I hope he continues his hot stretch that he has been having.”
Director of golf Todd Miller added: “I’m so excited for Kihei to compete in the Palmer Cup and get the opportunity to play golf in Ireland,” Miller said.“Tralee is a phenomenal links course.I have no doubt he will fall in love with the style of golf in Ireland.Kihei has done an incredible job representing his family, his faith and Brigham Young University this season.I know he will do the same as he represents USA.”
The Arnold Palmer Cup began in partnership with its namesake legend in 1997 with teams from Great Britain or Ireland facing off against U.S.golfers at Bay Hill Club & Lounge.Teams expanded over time; since 2018 both men’s and women’s squads compete side-by-side.Akina joins Peter Kuest (2019), Clay Ogden (2006),and Andy Miller (2000) as BYU alumni who played for Team USA.The U.S.holds a record of fifteen wins,two ties,and thirteen losses across all editions.Past participants include PGA Tour professionals such as Wyndham Clark,Bryson DeChambeau,Rickie Fowler,Dustin Johnson,and Collin Morikawa.
