MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – West Virginia University golf coach Sean Covich is thrilled to announce the signing of three promising athletes: Hogan Blais, Major Ewing, and Michael Shivers. They will join the Mountaineers in the 2026-27 academic year.
“We’re adding three outstanding young men,” Covich said. “They all have high character, work hard, and are competitive. Not only have they excelled in junior and high school golf, but they will also represent WVU with pride.”
Hogan Blais
Hogan hails from Ottawa, Ontario, where he attends Ecole Secondaire Publique Louis-Riel. His golfing resume speaks volumes:
- Advanced to the Monday Qualifier of the PGA TOUR Cognizant Classic after shooting a 66.
- Finished as runner-up at the Ontario NexGen Championship with impressive scores of 70-71-70.
- Secured third place at the Quebec Junior Boys Championship, scoring 71-69-71-68.
- Played AAA hockey and Tier 1 baseball, leading in both sports.
Covich has high hopes for Hogan, stating, “He has a lot of talent and has played some excellent golf. We’ve had great success with Canadian players in the past, and I’m excited he’ll continue that tradition.”
Major Ewing
Major comes from Blacksburg, Virginia, and studies at Rivers Academy in Georgia. His accomplishments include:
- Competing in prestigious tournaments like the AJGA Georgia Cup and the Virginia State Amateur.
- Being a two-time VHSL Class 4 State Champion at Blacksburg High School.
- Finishing as runner-up at the 2023 AJGA Lanto Junior Championship.
“We’re thrilled to bring Major into our Mountaineer family,” Covich shared. “He’s been on our radar for years, and his talent is undeniable.”
Michael Shivers
Michael is from Brentwood, Tennessee, and attends Gateway Academy. His highlights include:
- Qualifying as medalist in the 2024 Tennessee State Amateur with a score of 70.
- Winning several tournaments and being named MVP on his high school team.
- Demonstrating strong potential with consistent performances in local qualifiers.
Covich believes Michael will surprise many at WVU, stating, “He has the talent and work ethic we’re looking for.”
The Bigger Picture
These signings are part of a larger trend at WVU, where the golf program focuses on nurturing young talent. Not only do these recruits bring skill, but they also embody the values of hard work and dedication. With golf increasingly gaining popularity among youth, the future of this sport seems bright.
In a recent survey, nearly 30% of high school students expressed interest in pursuing golf at the collegiate level, highlighting the sport’s growing appeal. This uptick reflects broader trends in athletics and education, where schools are investing in comprehensive support systems for student-athletes. Programs like WVU’s are crucial in developing character and resilience alongside athletic prowess.
Covich’s excitement about these newcomers reflects a commitment to cultivating not just great golfers but well-rounded individuals who contribute positively to their teams and communities.
For more insights on college golf programs and athlete development, you can explore resources from the NCAA and other reputable organizations.
