Off the Links with Tommy Baker

An Inside Look at the Coker Golf Program: Issue #3
3/10/2009

Firstly, I would like to congratulate Dr. Robert Wyatt on recently being named the 16th President of Coker College. He will undoubtedly be an exemplary leader and a man of character as he leads Coker College into the future. Secondly, I would like to thank the outgoing President, Dr. James Dawson, for all of his advancements of Coker College and for his trust in allowing me to become the golf coach. It is without a doubt he is the reason I call Hartsville "my home."

And now, let's talk golf.

As many have noted we are coming off a victory at the Tusculum College Invitational shooting rounds of 289 - 275 = 564. With the 275 we set a new tournament record for 18 hole total and our 564 total shattered the previous 36 hole total by 15 shots. Entering day two the Cobras were seven shots off the lead of fellow Conference Carolinas member Limestone College but we managed to get off to a strong start and never relinquished. We entered the day with the utmost confidence in our ability to trust one-another and ourselves, and in doing so, managed to hammer home a huge victory! Needless to say I am very proud of this golf team. The hard work the team has put in is beginning to pay off. With this victory a ubiquitous sense of confidence has begun to present itself at practice. No more self-doubt, now we know we belong.

This victory is not only a big step for the team; it is a huge step for the golf program! But we must keep it in perspective and remain focused on our goals. Understand this was only one step and we have several steps remaining. At such a time, I recall an old saying that I try to coach by: "There is no elevator to success. You have to take the stairs."

Until next time,

Coach Baker