Dr. Gary Nelson Named USF Director of Golf; Rich Yokota Elevated to Head Coach

Oct. 14, 2009

(San Francisco) - Dr. Gary Nelson has been named the Director of Golf at the University of San Francisco and current assistant coach Rich Yokota will be elevated to head coach of the program as announced today by Athletic Director Debra Gore-Mann. As the Director of Golf, Nelson will have the responsibility of conducting development activities for the USF men's and women's golf programs and will serve as the primary fund raiser for both teams.

"This is a wonderful day for the golf programs at the University of San Francisco," Gore-Mann said. "Dr. Nelson has done an exceptional job energizing the men's program into a force in the WCC with and now has the opportunity to elevate both teams to new heights. Dr. Nelson has demonstrated outstanding alumni outreach and the ability to foster positive relationships with area golf courses to go along with strong fund raising skills. I look forward to working together with Gary in his new role to elevate both golf programs."

In four seasons as the head coach of the men's program, Nelson has revived a dormant program and led the team to the 2009 West Coast Conference Championship and now will add his fund-raising and logistical acumen to both the men's and women's programs in this newly created position.

"As Head Men's Golf coach the last four years, I have seen both USF men's and women's golf teams rise in National stature to a point where they are poised to join the ranks of the elite programs," Nelson said. "When a contract extension was offered six months ago, I looked at our program and established a new set of goals, not only for the men's program but the woman's program as well. By establishing the position of Director of Golf, Debi Gore-Mann has given me the opportunity to stay involved with coaching the men's program while providing recruiting, logistic, and budgetary support, as well as providing stability, and continuity for both programs. I look forward to serving USF in this new role, and providing the leadership to bring USF's golf teams to the next level on the National stage."

Yokota has spent the last three-plus seasons on Nelson's staff and has played a key role in the revival of the men's golf program on the Hilltop. The former touring professional has taught the game of golf for more than a decade.

"This transition is both exciting for me, as well as a plus for USF golf as a whole. I am very grateful for the support and show of faith that Gary and the University have shown me. Gary's role is expanded, and at the same time, the goals and teamwork we have developed will remain intact. We will continue to coach the team together at tournaments and practices, so he is still on the hook for any disappointments."

In just four seasons on the Hilltop, Nelson transformed the USF men's golf team into a contender. During the 2008-09 season, the Dons won two tournaments with a five-stroke victory at the 2008 Saint Mary's Invitational at Poppy Hills and then capped the regular season with the 10th WCC title in program history at Hiddenbrooke Golf Club. Along the way, San Francisco posted its lowest scoring average since 1990, averaging 293.70 in 30 tournament rounds in 2008-09. For his efforts, Nelson was named WCC Coach of the Year by his peers.

"This is a tremendous opportunity for Rich," Gore-Mann said. "The mentoring that Coach Nelson has provided as well as Rich's readiness to serve as head coach will allow for a seamless transition for the team. Dr. Nelson was ready for a new challenge and welcomed the chance to hand over the helm to his protégé."

Prior to his return to the Green and Gold, Nelson served as a member of the University of California's Executive Golf Committee that helped build the Golden Bears men's program to a national championship in 2004. He also founded the Alister McKenzie Society in 1987, which has become the foremost society if its type in golf. An accomplished amateur golfer, Nelson competed in numerous senior tournaments including the U.S. and British Senior Opens.