Rogue goose attacks college golfer in viral video, player falls into water

A viral video shows a goose charging a college golfer, prompting the player to swing at the bird and then tumble into a nearby water hazard during a tournament in April.

The clip, originally posted April 5 to the TikTok account of Goucher College golfer Tyler Lynch and repurposed last month, has drawn millions of views. The footage identifies the player as "Sam," and the man seen confronting the bird has been identified by observers as former Goucher golfer Samuel Tyson. The post had more than 7.7 million views as it circulated online.

In the video, the player steps back when a goose walks into his path between holes. The bird then launches toward him. The golfer flinches and makes several swings with his club in an apparent effort to fend off the animal. During those exchanges the player loses his footing and is seen tumbling down a small slope, landing back-first in a water hazard. He remains in the water briefly before climbing out and leaving the area. Teammates behind the camera are audible and can be heard laughing after the fall.

The footage appears to have been shot at the Catholic Cardinal Classic held at Blackrock Golf Course in Hagerstown, Maryland. Goucher College's team was at the event on April 5. Tournament results show the player identified in the clip shot a 5-over-par and tied for 20th place in the event.

The video shows the goose exiting the water and flying close to the golfer's head after his fall. A second bird also appears in the clip, and the drenched player ultimately walks away uninjured. Team rosters indicate that the golfer identified as Sam is no longer listed on Goucher's roster for the upcoming season; it was not clear whether he had transferred.

The viral post drew attention from social media and brands. The official account of a national toilet paper brand posted a quip about the player's reaction, describing his "survival instincts" in a short comment that was reshared widely.

Aggressive interactions between people and geese on golf courses and in parks have been reported in past years, particularly during nesting periods when birds may act defensively. Campus and course officials often advise maintaining distance from wildlife, letting animals pass, and avoiding attempts to handle or provoke wild birds.

The clip circulated widely on social platforms after being reposted, reigniting discussion about wildlife encounters at sporting events and recreational facilities. No injuries were reported from the incident beyond the player's clothes being soaked, and there were no official statements from the college or tournament organizers included with the widely shared video.