Katie Brinker becomes first women’s golf coach at MC since the team’s founding

Since the beginning of women’s golf at MC, the team has shared a coach with the men’s team. However, this season, Katie Brinker has been hired to coach specifically the women’s team. 

Brinker started playing golf when she was four years old, and says it’s been a part of her life for as long as she can remember. She played golf for two years at the University of Louisville before transferring to play at Franklin College, graduating in 2008. 

“I always wanted to compete with the best, so I didn’t see coaching in my future at first.  During my last season in college, my back started to give out, which ultimately led to my [golf] career ending sooner than I wanted. I saw coaching as a way to still be involved in the game and to use my experience to help others,” Brinker said.

Brinker and her family moved from Indianapolis to Knoxville in 2019. Since then, she has coached golf at both North Middle School and Concord Christian School. She started at Maryville College this summer. 

When asked about her impressions of the program so far, Brinker said: “This team is like a second family to me. I’m trying to help the girls learn more about golf, but also about strong work ethic and mental toughness.”

The women’s golf team placed first during their first tournament this season, showing growth for these athletes, who placed last in the conference in 2023. Additionally, Chloe Dunlap (‘25) won the individual medalist, and four players made the All-Tournament team. 

“While golf is an individual sport, a cohesive team pushes each other toward success,” said Brinker. “There is a sense of camaraderie and encouragement in our team that is creating a positive environment for growth. 

“It’s hard for anyone to be in two places at once, so I think both the men’s team and our team will greatly benefit from having their own coach. Jim Kelson, the men’s coach, is very experienced and knowledgeable, so both teams are in great hands.” 

When asked about her hopes for the rest of the season, Brinker said she was looking forward to the team using the new approaches to golf they have been discussing since the beginning of the season.

Lillian Peterson (‘27) and Grace Rector (‘27) are both returning players who are thriving under Brinker’s coaching. Rector has been playing golf for six years and Peterson for four. 

Peterson said her favorite thing about having a coach specifically for the women’s team is the extra help and dedication they are now receiving. 

“When we shared a coach with the men’s team, it was a lot harder to get one-on-one assistance, but now Coach [Brinker] is able to show up to all of our practices and tournaments and give hands-on help.”

Rector agrees. “Receiving [Brinker’s] undevoted time has already proved to help benefit the team in our performance,” she said. 

Rector’s hopes for the season are to keep the team bonds and positive dynamic, and continue placing in tournaments this season. Peterson agrees, and has high hopes for the remainder of this year.