SOUTHERN PINES, N.C. (Nov. 4, 2026) – Two of the Carolinas' top junior golfers have earned national recognition as Grayson Baucom of Hickory, N.C., and Connor Wolfe of Blythewood, S.C., were named to the 2027 U.S. National Junior Team, the United States Golf Association (USGA) announced Wednesday.

Baucom and Wolfe are among 25 junior golfers selected from across the country and two of just 12 boys named to the prestigious roster. Both are first-time selections and earned their spots after participating in their respective USNDP State Junior Team programs.

Baucom, 16, is a member of Team North Carolina and is set to graduate high school in 2028. Wolfe, also 16, represents Team South Carolina and is a member of the high school graduating class of 2029.

The two Carolinians are among six athletes elevated from State Junior Team programs to the national roster, highlighting the growing impact of the USNDP's development pathway.

“We’re very excited about this group and to announce the fourth roster of the U.S. National Junior Team,” said Chris Zambri, head coach of the USNDP. “It’s especially rewarding to see so many athletes earn this opportunity after being part of their state junior teams. That progression is exactly what we envisioned when creating a pathway that gives young players opportunities to develop, compete and ultimately reach the national level.”

Established in 2023, the U.S. National Development Program was created to identify, develop and support America's top emerging golf talent. The 2027 U.S. National Junior Team features 12 boys and 13 girls representing 10 states, including 14 first-time selections.

As members of the national team, Baucom and Wolfe will receive year-round support through world-class coaching, sports psychology, performance training, nutritional guidance and competitive development opportunities.

Team members also participate in spring and fall training camps, where they undergo physical testing, analyze their games, work with performance specialists and compete alongside some of the nation's best junior golfers.

The selections come as the USNDP continues to expand its reach nationwide. In October, the USGA announced that its State Junior Team program would expand to all 50 states, providing more young golfers with a pathway to national-level opportunities.

For Baucom and Wolfe, the selection represents another significant step in their competitive golf journeys and an opportunity to represent the Carolinas among the nation's elite junior players.

About the U.S. National Development Program

The U.S. National Development Program, developed and managed by the USGA, provides competitive opportunities, resources, education and mentorship to help American golfers reach their full potential. Through state and national teams, grants and specialized training, the program aims to create a sustainable pathway for the next generation of American golf talent.