University of Minnesota Director of Athletics Joel Maturi announced today the naming of Brad James as Director of Golf. James, the Gopher men’s golf coach for the past six seasons, will oversee all aspects of both the men’s and women’s golf programs at the University. Katie Hanneman resigned last fall as head coach of the women’s golf program after giving birth to her first child.
"With the women’s head coaching position open due to Katie’s resignation, we felt the best direction to go was to have Brad take over both programs," Maturi said. "He has elevated the men’s program to be one of the best in the country and we expect him to do the same for our women’s program."
This season, James led the men’s program to its third top-10 national finish and its third Big Ten Championship in his six seasons at the helm. The Gophers tied for ninth in 2007 after tying for third the previous season. James led Minnesota to the 2002 National Championship as the interim head coach of the men’s golf program. He was named the permanent head coach in July of 2002.
"I’m extremely excited about the opportunity to lead both programs," James said. "It’s my goal to keep the men’s program at its current level and take the next step with the women’s program. My first priority will be to hire a staff that can assist me in making Minnesota a consistent national golf power."
The NCAA title was only half of the Golden Gophers’ accomplishments in 2002. His squad became the first Minnesota team since 1972 to win the Big Ten title. Following his first year, the Gophers began the 2002-03 season ranked second nationally by Golf World and won the school’s first-ever back-to-back Big Ten Championships, along with All-American Matt Anderson taking the individual crown. It was the first time since 1972 that Minnesota claimed both the conference team and individual titles in the same season. James was named Big Ten Coach of the Year and led the team to their sixth consecutive NCAA Championship appearance.
In his tenure at Minnesota, James has recruited seven golfers who have earned 14 All-America citations. This past season, three Gophers – Bronson La’Cassie, Niall Turner and Victor Almstrom – were named All-Americans. La’Cassie earned his fourth All-America honor, becoming the only Golden Gopher golfer to earn All-America honors in each of his four seasons.
For a complete Brad James bio visit the Golden Gopher Athletics website at www.gophersports.com.
Contact:
Kyle Coughlin (612-625-4090)
