As the NJCAA golf season enters its final stretch, three New Mexico Military Institute golfers have officially signed letters of intent to continue their academic and athletic careers at the next level. Lucas Bjorelind, Liam Kirkvaag, and Kopper Arunmala will all transition to NAIA programs this coming fall.

The trio has been instrumental in keeping the Broncos a fixture on the national stage. Currently ranked No. 17 in the country, the team is fighting to secure a return trip to the NJCAA National Championship in mid-May. For head coach Jonathan Allen, these signings represent more than just athletic talent; they are a testament to the grit and discipline required to succeed in the unique environment of NMMI.

Hailing from Stavern, Norway, Lucas Bjorelind is set to join Tabor College in Hillsboro, Kansas. Bjorelind, a Business major, was a key contributor to the 2025 Bronco squad that finished 14th at the National Championship. With a 77.4 scoring average and a recent top-ten finish at the USW Spring Invitational, he brings a refined technical game to the Bluejays.

"Lucas comes from a golf background with great tutelage," said Coach Allen. "Since he arrived, we've focused on course management—learning when to play for position rather than just 'ripping driver' on every hole. I'm excited to see him take that mental maturity to the next level."

For Bjorelind, the growth was personal as much as professional. "I've gotten stronger physically and mentally," he noted. "Learning how to deal with daily life at NMMI while improving my game thanks to Coach Allen has been a life-changing experience."

Liam Kirkvaag, an Oslo, Norway native, will head to the Sunshine State to study Business Administration and compete for St. Thomas University in Miami. Kirkvaag's trajectory has been one of steady, relentless improvement. After finishing the 2024-25 season ranked 258th nationally, he has surged nearly 80 spots this year, currently sitting at 180th with a 78.6 average.

Coach Allen describes Kirkvaag as a "sponge" for information, though he notes that Liam's greatest strength is his work ethic. "When he keeps it simple and stays focused on the moment, he plays really well," Allen said.

Kirkvaag credits the Institute for his newfound perspective. "NMMI taught me patience," he said. "I've learned to trust the process and know that every effort is for my benefit. The discipline I've gained here has pushed me to grind in the classroom and on the course every single day."

Rounding out the signings is Kopper Arunmala, who traveled from Phuket, Thailand, to Roswell. Arunmala will continue his Business Administration studies at Ottawa University in Kansas. Currently the highest-ranked of the trio at 113th nationally, Arunmala boasts a 75.3 scoring average and has anchored the Broncos through three consecutive top-five team finishes over the last month.

"Kopper is so naturally gifted," Allen remarked. "When he's locked in mentally, he's one of the best players in the country. All three of these guys will be immediate leaders at their next schools—not just because of their scores, but because of the NMMI values they carry with them."

Arunmala echoed that sentiment, noting that his time as a Bronco prepared him for the rigors of a bachelor's degree. "I've become more confident in my skills and learned how to stay patient and trust myself," he said.

While their futures are secure, the work in Roswell isn't finished. The No. 17-ranked Broncos are currently preparing for the NJCAA National Championship, set for May 12–15 at Sand Creek Station Golf Course in Newton, Kansas. Under Coach Allen's leadership, the team is looking to turn their current momentum into a deep postseason run before these three leaders head off to their respective four-year programs.