Only Tiger quarterback Trevor Lawrence being the first pick in the recent NFL draft was more certain than Jordan Byrd becoming Clemson’s next golf coach.
The long time assistant to retiring Hall of Fame Coach Larry Penley has been promoted to run the Clemson golf program.
“I am thrilled to lead this program, and thankful to the administration for the opportunity,” said Byrd. “I have had the privilege to learn an incredible amount from Coach Penley and I am ready for this opportunity,” he said.
Byrd has spent his entire 17 year coaching career as the Clemson assistant.
“We are delighted to have Jordan Byrd take over the men’s golf program,” said Director of Athletics Dan Radakovich. “When Coach Penley announced his intention to retire, we quickly identified Jordan as a top candidate for this position,”he said.
The Clemson Athletics Director should have “quickly identified Byrd” as the “only” candidate for the job.
In his year’s at Clemson, Byrd has demonstrated outstanding ability to recruit top players to the program. Tiger golfers have relied on his ability as a technician and student of the game and his knowledge of the trends and techniques needed to be successful.
Fans who see the Tigers play will often see Byrd running from hole to hole helping Clemson golfers make good decisions or offer advice.
Most recently Byrd was with Zach Gordon late in his round as his ACC final round match went to extra holes before the Tiger from Gaffney delivered a 21 hole victory and the ACC championship for Clemson.
The younger brother of former Tiger All-American and PGA Tour veteran Jonathan Byrd, Jordan has been a finalist for the national assistant coach of the year award seven times.
Byrd was an outstanding college golfer at Furman. He was the Southern Conference champion in 1997 and led the Paladins to the SoCon team championship and their first trip to the NCAA Championship.
“Jordan Byrd is ready for this opportunity,” said Penley. “I’ve had the chance to work alongside him for 17 years, and he’s been a tremendous leader of young men. Jordan is a terrific golf mind and golf coach, and I couldn’t think of anyone better to lead this program into the future,” he said.
Byrd will assist Penley in the NCAA tournament before taking over the program.
Clemson opens play in the NCAA Regional at the Golf Club of Tennessee on May 17th, hoping to advance to the NCAA Finals set for Scottsdale, Arizona beginning on May 29th.
“Clemson has been home for my family and me for a long time, and I am excited to lead this program,” concluded the next Clemson golf coach.
Categories: + College Golf, Clemson golf
