Chambana Sun

Illinois women’s golf head coach Renee Slone has announced that Meadow Tian will join the program’s 2026 signing class. Tian signed her Big Ten Athletics Aid Agreement on Wednesday evening and is set to become part of the Fighting Illini in the fall of 2026.

Tian brings several achievements to Illinois, including three American Junior Golf Association (AJGA) championships, membership on the inaugural USNDP Team Ohio, and titles such as the 2025 Southern Ohio Junior PGA Champion and champion of the 49th Ohio Girls Junior. She also won the 2025 OHSAA Individual State Championship and was named Central Ohio District Player of the Year for 2025.

In a statement about her decision, Tian said: "I chose Illinois Women's Golf because of its unparalleled culture of empowerment and balance of athletics and academics. The amazing facilities and coaching staff provide exceptional resources for developing my game and character- both as a student-athlete and individual. The program's commitment to excellence and growth inspires me to push my limits and thrive in a competitive yet supportive environment."

Coach Slone commented on Tian’s recent accomplishments: "Meadow just concluded her high school career with a victory at the Ohio High School State Championship. She is a quiet competitor who models dedication and dependability and stretches her comfort zone looking for every opportunity to improve as evidenced by her steady improvement in the past year."