(Media release from Darlington School):
Junior Ther Kotchasanmanee has verbally committed to play golf at Princeton University following her graduation from Darlington School in May of 2025.
“Thank you to Coach Desanty for giving me an opportunity,” said Kotchasanmanee. “I’m looking forward to being part of the Princeton family.”
A boarding student from Maeon, Thailand, Kotchasanmanee has been playing golf for nine years. When she was looking for American boarding schools, Darlington stood out for its academics, strong golf program, and the opportunity to play at a higher level in the Coosa Junior Golf Academy. Kotchasanmanee competes as a member of both the girls’ varsity golf team and the Golf Academy.
“Ther is a great example of what hard work can accomplish,” said Jared Willerson, head varsity golf coach. “She has elevated every aspect of the golf program at Darlington and will be a huge asset to Princeton.”
Currently ranked No.10 in the girls’ Global Junior Golf Rankings (GJGR), Kotchasanmanee has had a decorated golf career at Darlington, winning back-to-back individual GHSA state titles and leading the girls’ varsity team to a GHSA Class A Division I team title in 2023. She has been named to the All-State golf team two years in a row. Following her standout freshman season, she was named a member of the All-USA TODAY High School Sports Awards Girls Golf Team, making her a nominee for national Girls Golfer of the Year.
In addition to the tournaments she plays with Darlington’s varsity golf team and the Golf Academy, Kotchasanmanee travels around the United States to compete in approximately 12-14 events each year. Most notably, she recently played in the American Junior Golf Association (AJGA)’s inaugural Mizuho Americas Open, hosted alongside the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA).
“I will continue to work hard and make myself a better person in golf and in life,” said Kotchasanmanee. “I can’t find the words to express my gratitude for this incredible opportunity. Go Tigers!”
Kotchasanmanee has high aspirations for her golf career, hoping to one day play in the LPGA Tour. In the meantime, she is building a strong foundation as a member of Darlington’s girls’ golf team and the Coosa Junior Golf Academy, and will soon continue to work toward her goal as a Princeton Tiger.
