‘Being selected as a member of the USC Men’s Golf team is a privilege and an honor, and I am committed to contributing to the program’s growth and success.’
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF Jaden Galo Dumdumaya/FB JADEN Galo Dumdumaya need not wait too long to show the golfing world what he’s got.
If Jaden Galo Dumdumaya ever had a problem with name recall, his golf talent would certainly take care of it.
The potential of this United States-based, 17-year-old Filipino is remarkable it didn't escape University of Southern California.
"It is a dream come true. This milestone holds immense significance for both me and my family," Dumdumaya told Tribune Golf via Messenger.
"Being selected as a member of the USC Men's Golf team is a privilege and an honor, and I am committed to contributing to the program's growth and success."
During this year's Southeast Asian Games, Dumdumaya became the only junior player in the Philippine team.
The year before that, he captured the 2022 California State Fair Tournament becoming the youngest player to accomplish it in 98 years.
"The scholarship I have been awarded is a testament to the unwavering determination and hard work I have dedicated to pursuing my dream," he added.
"However, I must also express my gratitude to my family, amazing friends, and the countless individuals in the community who have provided invaluable support throughout my journey. Without their encouragement and assistance, transforming this dream into reality would not have been possible."
Trojan head coach Mark Hankins recently welcomed him in an article on the school website.
"Jaden is a highly accomplished player that plays an international schedule and has high aspirations for his golf career," Hankins said.
"He is fundamentally sound in his golf swing, short game and mental approach. We look forward to adding Jaden to our Class of 2024 as we continue to grow our team strength and depth here at USC."
The Trojans' website also mentioned that Dumdumaya is the record holder for most wins on the Junior Tour of California, in front of multi-awarded PGA Tour and LIV Champion Bryson DeChambeau and former Trojan Justin Suh.
Dumdumaya is seeing action in the United States Golf Association — USGA 4-Ball qualifier this Wednesday (Thursday in Manila) at Poppy Hills in Pebble Beach, California.
He has teamed up with former Major League Baseball player Boomer White.
A Texas native, White once played for the San Diego Padres and won the SEC Conference Player of the Year in 2016 during his college baseball career at Texas A&M.
But he has since transitioned to golf. And now he's playing with the youthful Dumdumaya who is marking his first appearance in the qualifier.
And as Dumdumaya's young career began to take off, he promised never to neglect his duty with his home country.
"My plans playing for the Philippine Team have not changed," Dumdumaya said.
"I am still determined to represent the Philippines in all events that I am able to, as long as schedules permit. It's an honor to play for our country."
