On The Plains with Rachel Gourley: "I have a family here now"

From Northumberland, England, to Auburn, Alabama, Rachel Gourley has traveled thousands of miles to carve out her path on and off the golf course. She began playing golf at age 5, and her passion for the game has only grown during her time at Auburn.

“I always knew that I would come to college in the U.S.,” Gourley said. “I was the only person from my high school to do it, and I did it all on my own, but I trusted the process.”

Coming to the United States was a major transition, especially during COVID-19. The uncertainty and challenges were significant, but Gourley remained confident in her decision.

“It was hard during COVID because I wasn’t even allowed to come visit Auburn, but I don’t regret it at all,” said the Auburn senior. “I have a family here now, even though mine is so far away.”

Her first day on campus also doubled as her first day of class, adding to the emotions of an already overwhelming experience as she adjusted to life in a new country.

“I remember my first class was in Parker Hall, and walking there, I was just amazed by the stadium and all the nice buildings around campus,” Gourley said.

As she settled in and built relationships with her teammates, she quickly began to feel at home. Head coach Melissa Luellen played a key role in helping guide her through the transition.

“My coach always told me how I threw myself into everything with a smile on my face, even though I was freaking out on the inside,” Gourley said.

While moving across the world was a significant step, Gourley’s passion for golf ultimately led her to Auburn. Having played since childhood, she knew the sport would always be part of her journey.

“I honestly found a pair of Barbie golf clubs when I was five and didn’t even care what they were,” Gourley said. “I just knew I had to have them. I was obsessed with Barbie, and from there I started playing.”

As she continued to compete, Gourley began to see a future for herself in collegiate golf.

“There was a part of me that thought going to college for golf was what I was supposed to do,” she said. “But I think another part of me was just really interested in coming to the U.S. for school.”

During her time on the Plains, Gourley has grown both as a player and as a person. The challenges, celebrations and defining moments have shaped her experience.

“The opportunity to represent Auburn, or any institution, is incredible,” Gourley said. “Coming here, I didn’t have any ties or family, but my passion for Auburn has truly grown. I didn’t like football that much before, but now I’m one of those diehard fans.”

Gourley has contributed to Auburn’s success on the course, helping the team win titles while also earning SEC Academic Honor Roll recognition. Along the way, she has also discovered more about herself.

“Truly finding who I am here and finding my passions in and out of golf is my greatest achievement,” Gourley said. “Auburn has given me so many opportunities to do that, and it’s been amazing.

“One of the best times was when our team took a trip to California for spring break and just got to play golf together and go shopping. All the bonding time we had as a team was amazing. I will always cherish it.”

As her Auburn career comes to a close, Gourley is preparing for the next chapter while reflecting on everything the university has given her.

Leaving the Auburn Family will be bittersweet, as she says goodbye to a place that helped shape her life in so many ways. Still, she looks ahead with excitement and knows she will always have a home on the Plains.

“I’m proud to be able to say I’m graduating from Auburn and mainly just leaving the golf program better than I found it,” Gourley said.