Published May 31, 2026
By GRACE GRAHL
Four-year varsity golfer Sydney Ozel committed this spring to California State University, Chico, an NCAA Division II school for women’s golf.
“Sydney is a very consistent player,” says CHS golf coach Ross Kroeker. “She’s very accurate and focused on working hard during every round. I can always count on her posting a consistent solid score.”
After her middle school seasons were interrupted by COVID-19, she was determined to improve all aspects of her game entering high school. The senior found she benefited from specific coaching.
“I really worked on my short game with my coach, such as putting and chipping,” the senior says.
The recruiting process was fairly straightforward for Ozel, who chose Chico State over Southern Oregon University after a trip to both campuses. She felt that the small-town feel and closeness to Carmel were key factors for her commitment. While on her campus tour, Ozel was able to meet the women’s golf team and the all-female coaching staff, a factor which she says was big in her decision.
Sydney Ozel’s favorite course is Quail Lodge, which also happens to be the high school team’s home course. Courtesy of SYDNEY OZEL
On the course, Ozel is characterized by her accuracy and length off the tee, frequently scoring in the top three on the team during matches.
“Golf requires patience, focus and self-control, which teaches me to stay calm even when things do not go perfectly,” Ozel says. “I also love meeting new people from different areas that I would have never known otherwise.”
Her consistency showed early in her senior season, in her first match of golf fresh from summer training. Playing against Hollister, Ozel shot for 37 on nine holes, an excellent score that reflects how her motto of “practice, practice, practice” benefits her game.
As Sydney Ozel heads on to college, more than her future in golf is on her mind. She hopes to pursue a degree in Psychology, a popular major at Chico State that has a well-rounded program supporting it.
“I love golf because it is such a peaceful sport,” says the 2026 CHS graduate. “Even though it can get stressful at times, being surrounded by nature helps me relax and clear my mind from stress.”
