LAKELAND, Fla.—Southeastern University Director of Athletics Drew Watson announced the promotion of
David Joyner from interim head coach to head coach of both the men's and women's golf teams.
Last year, Joyner led both teams back to the NAIA National Championship helping the men finish a program-best 11
th and the women to an eighth-place finish. Both teams spent time ranked inside the top five of the NAIA coaches' poll.
"I am extremely grateful for this opportunity," said Joyner. "SEU is a special place and I am looking forward to growing and developing our student athletes. I want to thank Director of Athletics Drew Watson and the administration at SEU for believing in me. I am really looking forward to the future of SEU Golf."
The men's team had seven top three finishes last year and tied the program record for season scoring average at 295.31 and had a program-record eight rounds at par or better. The men's team also set a new record for birdies in a season with 451.
Matthew Soucinek became the first SEU golfer in 10 years to win The Sun Conference championship and picked up his third NAIA All-America honor.
"David has done an excellent job, not only in coaching golf, but investing in his student-athletes by building a culture of trust, accountability, and effective communication in both the men's and women's golf programs," said Watson. "I'm excited he's on board and look forward to seeing what these programs can accomplish as we move forward."
On the women's side, the Fire won four tournaments and posted a 308 average team score behind All-Americans
Marlie Smit and
Hallie Riley.
The Lakeland native spent six seasons as an assistant coach for the Fire before stepping in as interim head coach. He also has coaching experience at the high school level locally at George Jenkins and Lakeland Christian.
