Jacob Immelman, son of Masters champ, signs with Clemson

Trevor Immelman made a pact with his son, Jacob. Trevor promised to keep filling Jacob’s gas tank on condition that Jacob, when asked if he’s ever beaten his major-winning dad on the golf course, respond with humble surrender: always falling short by just one shot.

Come next fall, those fuel demands will surge. Jacob Immelman, a 17-year-old senior at Lake Highland Prep in Orlando, Florida, will embark on an eight-hour journey to pursue college golf at Clemson after signing with the university on Wednesday, the first day of the week-long early signing period.

“It’s always been the dream to go there,” Jacob said over the phone Wednesday evening.

Jacob has been a Clemson fan practically since birth. Although Trevor didn’t attend college, his deep ties to the university through a close friend and his fondness for the Tigers turned Jacob into an ardent supporter. Attending his first Clemson football game at just 3 years old, Jacob’s most cherished memory is witnessing Clemson’s 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship victory.

“Hopefully, I can make a lot more memories over the next four years,” Jacob said.

Jacob is one of three signees for Clemson head coach Jordan Byrd. Colin Salema of Matthews, North Carolina, is the headliner, a winner of last year’s North and South Junior and No. 25 in GolfChannel.com’s Class of 2024 rankings. Another North Carolina native, Rich Wills, is the third incoming freshman.

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Trevor noted a significant improvement in Jacob’s game over the past 18 months. Jacob’s growth spurt led to added power and distance, with his technical skills falling into place. With a commitment to continuous improvement, Trevor acknowledged that Jacob is yet to reach his full potential.

Byrd extended the offer to Jacob in July, which Jacob promptly accepted. He concluded his official visit by rooting for the Tigers and reuniting with Swinney at a practice session last weekend.

“When I go there, it’s just got a such a great vibe that it gives off,” Jacob said of Clemson. “The golf program has that same feeling. … Just all-around great people.”

Trevor appreciates the opportunity for Jacob to pursue both his golf career and obtain a degree. “I’m a huge fan of the college system,” he said.

Jacob, currently ranked in the 800s in various rankings, is equipped with invaluable knowledge gained from his upbringing on the PGA Tour and from his father’s guidance.

With ample father-son time on the golf course, there will be no stories of Jacob beating his father – he likes his money for gas.