Staff WriterIf you’re looking for the next young name to start rattling around leaderboards like a loose coin in a tumble dryer, Michael La Sasso might be it. HyFlyers GC have announced the signing of the 2025 NCAA Division I Individual Men’s Golf Champion ahead of the 2026 season—an addition that feels equal parts future-proofing and rocket fuel for a team led by a captain who’s never been shy about a little drama.
La Sasso arrives with a college résumé that reads like someone accidentally switched on “career mode” and forgot to turn it off. He won the NCAA title at 11-under, becoming only the second champion in University of Mississippi history, and he did it while stacking accolades: First Team All-American, First Team All-SEC, finalist recognition for the Jack Nicklaus Division I Player of the Year and the Haskins Award, plus the lowest single-season scoring average in Ole Miss history (69.48). In other words, the lad didn’t merely knock on the door—he brought the hinges.
A champion steps up to the big stage
The move places Michael La Sasso into LIV Golf’s team ecosystem at a time when the HyFlyers are clearly sharpening their edge. And from La Sasso’s point of view, the appeal sounds simple: higher stakes, bigger arenas, and an education from one of golf’s most famous left hands.
“I’m incredibly excited to join HyFlyers GC and take this next step in my career,” said LaSasso. “It’s a rare opportunity to learn from one of the greatest players in the history of the game, and I don’t take that lightly. LIV Golf allows me to compete at the highest level on a global stage, and I thrive in a team environment, especially one with the camaraderie and support that defines HyFlyers GC. My focus is on learning, continuing to improve, and doing everything I can to help our team succeed.”
That’s the sort of quote you like to hear from a young player—respectful, ambitious, and clearly aware that professional golf can be a charming companion one day and a rabid squirrel the next.
Why HyFlyers GC believe La Sasso fits
HyFlyers GC’s 2025 season had enough sparks to suggest something’s brewing. They produced an eye-catching highlight by upsetting Fireballs GC in the quarterfinals of the LIV Golf Michigan Team Championship, and Captain Phil Mickelson contributed multiple top-10 finishes and a signature moment that reminded everyone he still owns a paintbrush when it comes to creativity.
Mickelson, never one to understate a player’s ceiling when he likes what he sees, was emphatic about what Michael La Sasso brings to the locker room and the tee box.
“Michael is one of the most exciting young players in the game today, bringing a competitive fire that’s evident every time he tees it up,” said Mickelson. “He combines tremendous power and speed with an exceptional feel for the game. Beyond his talent, his personality, work ethic, and commitment to being a great teammate make him a terrific addition to HyFlyers GC. We’re excited to support his development, accelerate his learning curve, and help him achieve his goals—while he, in turn, makes our team even stronger.”
Power, speed, feel—those are the three ingredients that can either bake a masterpiece or set off the smoke alarm. The difference is usually temperament, and HyFlyers are clearly betting La Sasso has the wiring to handle the heat.
The supporting cast: Steele and Tringale set the standard
The HyFlyers aren’t asking La Sasso to carry the piano up the stairs on day one. He joins a core that includes Brendan Steele and Cameron Tringale, two seasoned LIV Golf competitors who provide reliability, match-play bite, and the sort of professional steadiness every rookie should keep within arm’s reach.
Tringale was a consistent points-earner, securing points in 10 of 13 starts last season and building a reputation as a match-play asset. Steele’s veteran presence adds depth, perspective, and a calming “I’ve seen this movie before” energy when rounds get strange—which, in golf, is roughly every 14 minutes.
From management, the message is clear: this is a talent acquisition with intent, not a novelty signing.
“Michael has proven that he knows how to win at the highest levels. He has established himself as one of golf’s promising young talents and we are thrilled he chose to join HyFlyers GC,” said Peter Davis, HyFlyers GC General Manager. “He’s shown tremendous discipline, consistency, and poise under pressure, and we believe his transition to the professional game will be a natural one. Michael values the team environment and recognizes he has an exceptional opportunity to learn and grow with Phil’s mentorship, as well as Brendan and Cameron’s experience and shared commitment to elevating the entire team.”
Translation: Michael La Sasso isn’t being brought in just to learn—he’s being brought in to contribute, quickly.
When is Michael La Sasso making his LIV Golf debut?
The first proper look at La Sasso in HyFlyers colours is set: he’s scheduled to debut at the opening event of the 2026 LIV Golf season, February 4–7, at Riyadh Golf Club in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Tickets for LIV Golf’s 2026 season are available now at LIVGolf.com. For the full 2026 schedule, visit LIVGolf.com/schedule.
