WINFIELD, Kan. — For Southwestern College Moundbuilders golfer Cameron Surles, the game has always been more than just a sport.
The smooth-swinging sophomore from Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, has had many birdies in his young career, but his family is what keeps him going — even when he bogeys.
"My family means everything to me," Surles said. "They have been there through my whole golf journey, the highs and the lows."
Surles first picked up a club as a child, tagging along for fun rounds with his grandpa. Those early days sparked an interest that grew into a passion once he began working with his swing coach, Brett Freeman.
"My swing coach really helped me develop my love for the game," Surles said. "The way he taught me my swing and golf intrigued me and motivated me to get into golf."
His grandfather remains the biggest influence on his golf journey. From countless childhood rounds to cheering at tournaments, his support has shaped Surles both as a player and a person.
"He has always been there to support me, coming to tournaments and encouraging me no matter how I played," Surles said. "His love for the game and constant support are a big part of why I love golf so much today."
Surles brings a poised demeanor to the course, setting the tone for his teammates to do the same. Though just a sophomore, he understands there are bigger things in life. The game of golf has been the driving factor behind his academic success, as Surles was named to the Dean's Honor Roll at SC in the spring of 2025. He also plans to attend law school upon graduation — a dream he has carried alongside his golf career.
His growth as a student has translated to the links. He has seen significant improvement in his game between his freshman and sophomore seasons.
"Through my experiences last year, I have grown a lot mentally and physically," Surles said. "Last year was a very up-and-down year, but in my sophomore year, I feel much more confident and consistent."
One of those highs last year was relived yet again this fall when Surles repeated as individual champion of the Southwestern Fall Invite (70-72—142). The men's team also defended its 2024 title and was crowned champion at Quail Ridge Golf Course this year (288-294—582).
"There is always a little extra motivation when playing at home, and to come out on top as a team made it special," Surles said.
As the fall season comes to a close, Southwestern golf eyes the final tournament of its 2025 campaign, the KCAC Match Play Tournament. The men's squad will look to put everything together after showing flashes of success this year.
"We have proven that we can play with the best teams," Surles said. "We know we have the talent and ability to make a run."
First-year head coach Jackson Strohl has the Moundbuilders poised to make a strong push.
"Competition's a huge focus for us," Strohl said on Builder Sports Live. "Every practice, they've got some sort of competition going on."
The KCAC Match Play Tournament will be held at Mariah Hills Golf Course in Dodge City, Kansas, on Oct. 20-21.
With confidence in their preparation and a close-knit team behind them, Surles and the Moundbuilders are ready to embrace the moment in Dodge City. For Surles, it's another chance to honor the support system that has carried him this far. For Southwestern golf, it's an opportunity to make a statement in the KCAC.
