LeTourneau’s Kinley Pessel on Making History, Balancing Golf and Life, and Chasing NCAA Success

On this episode of East Texas Sports Now, former Hallsville Ladycat and current LeTourneau women’s golfer Kinley Pessel joins the show after a historic week on the course. Pessel captured the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference individual championship, earning her fifth tournament win of the season and setting a new LeTourneau program record in the process. Pessel breaks down her performance at Hawks Creek Golf Club, including how she bounced back mentally after a tough opening round and found a way to finish strong. She discusses the importance of staying focused shot by shot, building confidence throughout the season, and learning how to handle the mental challenges that come with competitive college golf. The conversation also highlights a historic moment for the LeTourneau women’s golf team, which won its first-ever SCAC championship and earned a trip to the NCAA Championships in Palm Desert, California. Pessel talks about what it means to be part of a record-setting team, the chemistry among the group, and the mindset needed as the YellowJackets prepare to compete on the national stage. Pessel also opens up about her growth since leaving Hallsville, the challenges of balancing college golf, academics, work, and personal life, and why she is proud of how far she has pushed herself. She shares her goals for the NCAA Championships, her marketing major, and how golf could continue to play a role in her future. Also in this episode, the show recaps the NFL Draft results for East Texas athletes, including selections and free-agent opportunities, and discusses Tyler Junior College hiring Riley Davis as its next men’s basketball head coach.