University of Minnesota Athletics
Brad James Named Head Men's Golf Coach
6/17/2002 12:00:00 AM | Men's Golf
"I'm very delighted to announce Brad James as our head coach," said Tom Moe. "With how he guided our golf program this season through all the adversity, he is obviously one of the top, young golf coaches in the country. We look forward to Brad coaching our program for years to come."
James, 30, led the Golden Gophers to the national title as the interim head coach in 2001-02. Minnesota stormed back from 16th place after two rounds to become the first northern school since Ohio State in 1979 to win the national championship. The Golden Gophers also won the Big Ten title for the first time in 30 years this past season.
"I'm very happy with my decision," said James. "It's been a stressful last couple of weeks. I feel that the University of Minnesota is going to make a commitment and has made a commitment to keep a nationally- ranked golf program. I want to thank John Means and give him credit for building this program over the past 10 years. John has taught me a great deal about coaching and without him this opportunity would not have come about. I'd also like to thank the community, Tom Moe, Jeff Schemmel and the staff at the `U' for all of their support."
James becomes the sixth men's golf coach in school history. He follows W.R. Smith (1930-35); Les Bolstad (1946-76); Rick Ehrmanntraut (1976- 78); Greg Harvey (1978-90); and John Means (1990-2001).
