Wilkes-Krier Named Assistant Coach
8/11/2016 12:00:00 AM | Men's Golf
Aug. 11, 2016
ANN ARBOR, Mich. -- Former Ball State golf standout, professional player and Ann Arbor native Patrick Wilkes-Krier has been named the assistant coach for the University of Michigan men's golf following an announcement by U-M head coach Chris Whitten today (Thursday, Aug. 11). Wilkes-Krier replaces Nick Pumford, who was named the men's golf head coach at Oakland University in late June.
"I could not be happier to add Patrick Wilkes-Krier to our program," said Whitten. "He will make an immediate impact with our players and help in every facet of our team. He has followed the same road as many of our student-athletes, having success in junior golf, improving tremendously in college and then making the transition to professional golf for a long career.
"I'm also impressed by his instructional background working with Dave Kendall and all of the instructors at the Kendall Academy for whom I have tremendous respect," added Whitten. "Player development is the keystone of our program, and Patrick will help us to emphasize that even more. He will build great relationships quickly, and I'm excited for him to begin."
"Having grown up in Ann Arbor I've long had great admiration and love for the University of Michigan and to think now that I'll be a part of it is exciting," said Wilkes-Krier. "I've known Chris for a long time and cannot wait to help with this team that he's put together. I only have great memories from my collegiate golf career, and I'm eager to return to that atmosphere."
During an eight-year professional career, Wilkes-Krier competed primarily on the National Golf Association Tour (Hooters Tour) as well as playing in several events on the Web.com Tour and other mini tours throughout the country. In 2011, he was named the NGA Hooters Tour Most Improved Player.
Following his professional career, he became an instructor in 2015 at the Kendall Academy at Miles of Golf outside of Ann Arbor. He serves as the director/instructor of the elite junior program, where he teaches and mentors middle- and high-school golfers.
Born and raised in Ann Arbor, Wilkes-Krier played locally at Huron High School, earning All-State Super Team honors as a senior (2003). A four-year varsity letterwinner and starter at Ball State (2003-06), he was a two-time captain as a junior and senior. A two-time All-Mid-American Conference (MAC) selection, he holds the Ball State record for the lowest 54-hole score as well as the First Energy Intercollegiate Tournament record with his 15-under par 201 total, winning medalist honors at the famed Firestone Golf Club. Wilkes-Krier ranks third in school history with a 74.01 career scoring average.
In 2016, he joined current Wolverine Kyle Mueller in qualifying for the U.S. Open at Oakmont Country Club.
Communications Contact: Tom Wywrot
