Greenville, SC:  The NCCAA is pleased to announce Kirsten Darling of University of Northwestern (UNW) as the 2023 Dan & Kelly Wood Award Recipient for Women’s Golf.
 
Darling, a native of Coon Rapids, Minnesota, has a desire in golf, and in life, of knowing Christ and making Him known to those around her. Everything she does is in service to Him. She is a two-year team captain and has led the Eagles in many aspects, including leading chapels and Bible studies for her team. Her heart of service also shines in the way she gives back to her community, serving with various local ministries, summer camps, and outreaches.
 
On the course, she helped lead the Eagles to capturing the 2021 Upper Midwest Athletic Conference (UMAC) Championship, earning an automatic bid to the NCAA DIII National Championship. She followed that performance with her individual career low finish, shooting 78 and earning medalist honors at the NCCAA North Central Regional Championship. This finish earned her a spot in the National Championship as an individual qualifier where she went on to finish 21st overall. In 2023, she once again led her team in capturing the 2023 UMAC Conference Championship while also earning the honor of First Team All-Conference.

Darling has proven herself not just on the golf course but in the classroom as well. Boasting a 3.7 GPA, the senior accounting major has been honored with various NCAA and NCCAA academic awards including UMAC All-Conference Academic Team and NCCAA Scholar-Athlete.

“As a two-year captain, Kirsten has been a constant example of hard work, encouragement, and dedication to her teammates and coaches,” said Head Golf Coach Billy Aune. “She has earned and been given responsibility that helps our ladies squad to be the best that they can be.

Award Description
Dan and Kelly Wood’s commitment to the NCCAA is evident in the growth of the Golf National Championships with venue upgrades, the addition of women’s golf, and an enhanced format. While at two NCCAA member institutions, Dan served as NCCAA Men’s Golf Chair from 1993-1999. He assumed the role of Executive Director in 2000 and developed the Game Plan 4 LIFE character initiative while also expanding Christian Service Projects and sports ministry funding. Kelly worked for the NCCAA for over 30 years. Her heart for the Lord and to reach others for Christ helped grow the NCCAA’s Kingdom impact.
  

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