NAPLES, FL – July 21, 2025 – University of Florida head men’s golf coach J.C. Deacon has added another significant achievement to his impressive resume, clinching his third Florida Open Championship title in a dramatic playoff at the 79th edition of the tournament. The victory makes him only the third golfer since 1962 to win the prestigious event three times, cementing his place in Florida golf history.
Deacon, who previously won the Florida Open in 2017 and 2020, entered the final round two shots off the lead. He showcased remarkable composure and skill, firing a bogey-free 5-under 67, including a crucial eagle to start his final 18 holes. His exceptional play brought him to a tie at 16-under par with a familiar face: Joseph Pagdin, a former player he coached at the University of Florida from 2020-2024.
The playoff, a battle between mentor and protégé, saw both players opt for irons off the tee. Deacon found the fairway, while Pagdin’s shot drifted into the left penalty area. Seizing the opportunity, Deacon laid up, then stuck his approach shot to 17 feet, calmly sinking the birdie putt to secure the trifecta.
Deacon’s triumph comes on the heels of a highly successful season leading the Florida Gators men’s golf team. Under his guidance, the Gators reached the NCAA Championship Semifinals, won an NCAA Regional Title, and secured the SEC Championship. His personal victory at the Florida Open further highlights his exceptional talent as both a coach and a player.
Throughout his 54 holes at the Florida Open, Deacon recorded an impressive 18 birdies, 32 pars, and an eagle, with only three bogeys. His final round performance, following a bogey-free 65 in the previous round, underscored his consistent and high-level play.
This latest victory not only reinforces Deacon’s prowess in the competitive golf landscape but also serves as an inspiring example for his collegiate athletes, demonstrating that his commitment to excellence extends from the coaching ranks to the fairways himself.
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