June 26, 2002
TEMPE, Ariz. - Arizona State sophomore golfer Jimin Kang announced Wednesday that she will forgo her final two years of eligibility to pursue a career in professional golf.
"This is a decision I have been thinking about for a long time, since my freshman year," Kang, 22, said. "When I came to Arizona State, I knew that I had a lot of things to learn as a person, in the classroom and on the golf course, but now I think I am ready. I am thankful for everything that everyone at Arizona State has done for me and taught me in my two years, but I think it's the right time for me to explore my opportunities in professional golf."
A 2002 National Golf Coaches Association first-team All-American, Kang won two tournaments in her two-year career at ASU including the 2002 Pac-10 Conference individual title. A two-time All-Pac-10 honoree and the runner-up at the 1999 U.S. Women's Amateur, Kang finished in the top 10 in 13 tournaments in her two seasons at ASU.
"I knew when I recruited Jimin that she was a professional-caliber athlete who could very well be our next LPGA star," ASU interim women's golf coach Linda Vollstedt said. "I think she is ready for the professional tour. Jimin Kang had a great career at Arizona State as a Pac-10 Champion and a first-team All-American. Now the world of professional golf will have the opportunity to get to know this great player and see that million-dollar smile."
Kang, who resides in Scottsdale, Ariz., leaves Sunday for the U.S. Women's Open, July 4-7 at the Prairie Dunes Country Club in Hutchinson, Kan. She will then attempt to qualify for the LPGA Tour at qualifying school at the end of August.