DI Kim Moore Recipients Announced

WOMEN’S GOLF COACHES ASSOCIATION ANNOUNCES ASHLEY STEVENSON AND LEIA CHUNG AS 25-26 DIVISION I KIM MOORE SPIRIT AWARD RECIPIENTS

FRISCO, Texas (June 19, 2026) – The Women’s Golf Coaches Association (WGCA) has announced Ashley Stevenson of Jacksonville State University and Leia Chung of Boise State University as the 2025-2026 Division I Kim Moore Spirit Award recipients.

This award is dedicated to Kim Moore, who played golf for the University of Indianapolis (1999-2003). Kim was an inspiration to all as she persevered through many physical challenges while playing collegiate golf. She has continued to leave her mark on the game, winning the inaugural U.S. Adaptive Open in 2022. Her positive outlook and dedication are only out done by her sense of humor and passion for the game.

The purpose of the award is to recognize and honor a student-athlete or coach who exemplifies a great spirit toward the game of golf, a positive attitude on and off the golf course, a role model for her team and mental toughness in facing challenges. The annual award is presented separately to recipients in Division I, II, and III.

Co-Recipient of 2025-2026 Kim Moore Spirit Award

Ashley Stevenson, Jacksonville State University

Ashley Stevenson Spotlight Video

Following her freshman year, Ashley was diagnosed with parosteal osteosarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer. She remained home in France during the 2024-25 season while undergoing chemotherapy and surgery. In May 2025, she was declared cancer-free.

Ashley returned to Jacksonville State in August 2025 and continued her rehabilitation while preparing for a return to competition. After receiving medical clearance, she returned to the lineup during the spring of 2026.

"From the day Ashley told me she had cancer, she was determined to beat it and return to our team," said Coach Robbie Fields. "Although she wasn't physically with us during the 2024-25 season, she remained an important part of our program through her constant encouragement, good-luck messages, and FaceTime calls with teammates."

Co-Recipient of 2025-2026 Kim Moore Spirit Award

Leia Chung, Boise State University

Leia Chung Spotlight Video

During the spring of her sophomore season in 2024, Leia began experiencing persistent back pain. Further evaluation revealed an injury that required surgery and an extended period away from the game. For someone with a deep passion for golf, the diagnosis was devastating, but Leia remained committed to her recovery and eventual return to competition.

Just 11 months after surgery, Leia's return was nothing short of remarkable. She captured the Golfweek Fall Challenge title and added another victory at the New Mexico State event. She also claimed the Mountain West Conference individual championship, helping lead her program to its first conference title since 1993.

"I have never seen someone go through so much adversity with such grace and commitment," said Coach Kailin Downs. "Throughout her recovery, Leia showed up every day ready to support her teammates and do whatever work her body would allow. She did it with a smile on her face, never complained, and remained grateful for every opportunity she had to improve. Her perseverance and positivity have been an inspiration to everyone around her."

See full press release here.