Fresh Start for Song as She Makes Pro Debut

Excited. Nervous. Grateful. That’s how June Song sums up the week ahead, her first as a professional golfer.

At 23, she’s making her debut in the paid ranks at Mollymook Golf Club’s Hilltop course, the opening stop of the 2026 Ford Women’s NSW Open Regional Qualifying Series.

For a player who’s grown up in NSW golf, represented her state, and is now back on home soil, Mollymook feels like the ideal stage.

“This was kind of a quick decision for me,” Song laughed.

“I’m feeling excited and nervous; there’s a mix of emotions there. I haven’t actually played a tournament since April, so this is kind of my ‘we’ll see where I’m at’ event.”

Just a few years ago, Song was one of NSW’s brightest amateurs, helping lead her team to victory at the 2023 Interstate Series before heading to the United States to finish her degree at Southern Methodist University (SMU) in Dallas.

“Winning Interstate was a really big high,” she said.

“Then I decided to go back to college because I wanted to get my degree. I wanted a Plan B. I knew I couldn’t fully chase golf if I didn’t have that backup, so I went back and did another two years.” 

Her college experience had its highs and lows. There were injuries that kept her sidelined, a few disappointing stretches of form, and the unforgettable experience of competing in an LPGA Tour event.

“It wasn’t always easy, but I think it matured me, both as a player and as a person,” she said.

“It’s definitely been a roller coaster, but I’m grateful for every part of it. Going through all that really helped me figure out who I am.”

Coming home to Australia earlier this year gave Song a chance to reset and reconnect with the people and places that shaped her.

“Being back feels really good,” she said.

“It was a bit awkward at first. America had kind of become home for me. But being back with family and friends has been amazing. I’ve been focusing a lot on myself, a lot of self-discovery and self-care. I think I needed that time.”

Based at Avondale Golf Club, Song has found comfort in the familiar. But turning pro wasn’t something she’d been planning for long.

“If I wanted to start my professional career anywhere, it would be here,” she said.

“I honestly didn’t even know it was a possibility at first. But I wanted to play a few events before heading off to Q-School, and the timing just worked out. I feel really lucky to have this opportunity.”

Armed with a journalism degree and a minor in art history, Song says the past few years have taught her a lot about handling change, a skill that will come in handy on tour.

“I’ve had to juggle a lot, finishing my internship, classes, and trying to keep my game sharp,” she said.

“It hasn’t been easy, but this week I’ve got no expectations. I just want to enjoy being out here, seeing my friends again, and getting back into tournament golf.”

She’ll use the NSW events as a springboard into LET Q-School later this year, taking her first steps toward earning a tour card.

“This year’s had its ups and downs,” she admits.

“But it’s also opened a lot of doors. I think things are starting to align for me.”

As she gets ready to tee off at Mollymook, Song’s focus isn’t on numbers or leaderboards, it’s on rediscovering her love for the game.

“I think I’m just embracing it all,” she adds.

“This is where I want to be, and I’m excited to see where it goes from here.”

Song isn’t the only rising star making the leap this week. Four fellow standout amateurs have taken the next step in their golfing journeys, turning professional ahead of the event.

Ann Jang, Hannah Reeves, Yerim Kim and Piper Stubbs, have all joined the professional ranks and are ready to capitalise on their strong amateur careers.

Queenslander Hannah Reeves has long been one of the Sunshine State’s top performers. The 2024 Queensland Strokeplay Champion has been a consistent presence in interstate teams in recent years.

New South Wales’ Ann Jang also brings a strong resume, with six World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR) event wins to her name — including a standout victory at this year’s Riversdale Cup.

Yerim Kim, from Strathfield Golf Club, was a star junior who claimed the 2019 Wagga Wagga Junior Masters and continues to develop under the guidance of NSW High Performance Manager Khan Pullen.

Meanwhile, Piper Stubbs returns from college golf in the United States after completing her studies at South Dakota State. The Queenslander — and sister of 2023 Asia-Pacific Amateur Champion Jasper Stubbs — now looks to make her own mark in the professional game.

Round One of the Mollymook Regional Qualifier will begin tomorrow morning, with the final round to be broadcast live on Kayo Sports from 11 AM on Saturday.