Florida Golfer Matthew Kress Rises to No. 1 Ahead of Gators Invitational

The unsung freshman has emerged as the top player on a talented Florida team hosting an elite field this weekend.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Matthew Kress, a Florida golfer who arrived as an unsung teenager, has risen to become the No. 1 player on the Gators' talented 2021 squad. The team is hosting the prestigious Gators Invitational this weekend, featuring an elite field of collegiate golfers.

Why it matters

Kress's rapid rise to the top of the Florida lineup is a testament to his hard work and development, as the Gators program is known for producing top professional talent. The Gators Invitational is one of the premier events in college golf, so Kress will have a chance to showcase his skills against the best players in the country.

The details

When Kress first arrived at Florida, he lacked the pedigree, resume, and confidence of many of his more highly-touted teammates. However, he has quietly worked his way up the lineup and is now the No. 1 player on the team, ahead of accomplished amateurs and blue-chip recruits.

  • The Gators Invitational is taking place this weekend (February 13-15, 2026).
  • Kress joined the Florida golf team in 2021.

The players

Matthew Kress

A Florida golfer who has risen to become the No. 1 player on the talented Gators squad.

JC Deacon

The head coach of the Florida golf team.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“If you would have asked me what my goals were when I first started here, it'd be to make sure I had a spot on the team the next year.”

— Matthew Kress (wn.com)

What’s next

Kress and the Florida team will look to capitalize on their home course advantage and Kress's rise to the top of the lineup as they compete against the elite field at the Gators Invitational this weekend.

The takeaway

Kress's journey from an unsung freshman to the No. 1 player on a talented Florida squad is an inspiring story of hard work and development, showcasing the Gators' ability to cultivate top talent and compete at the highest levels of college golf.