Wilson selected to lead Wisconsin men’s golf
June 15, 2021 | Men's Golf
Former UAB head coach takes over Badgers program
"I am thrilled and honored to have the opportunity to coach the men's golf program at Wisconsin," said Wilson. "I'd like to thank Chris McIntosh, Marija Pientka and the entire search committee for having confidence in me.
"I feel the program is on the rise and in a good place for us to be successful. This athletic department is second to none and the golf facilities are among the best in the country. Combine that with a first-class University and the sky is the limit for what this program can accomplish. I am so excited for what lies ahead and my family cannot wait to arrive in Madison."
Wilson stood out among the potential candidates for his competitive leadership.
"We're excited to welcome Mike to Wisconsin and to lead our talented men's golf program," said McIntosh, UW's Deputy Director of Athletics, who will begin duties as Director of Athletics on July 1. "Mike's experience and vision will enhance the strong foundation of men's golf we have here and help further lead the Badgers to compete at a high level in the Big Ten and the nation."
Wilson's ability to teach and develop student-athletes was also notable among the pool of applicants.
"Mike has demonstrated the ability to develop golfers, maximizing individual skills and abilities," said Pientka, UW's Senior Associate Athletic Director for Sports Administration. "His ability to connect, relate and build meaningful relationships with his student-athletes has led to success not only on the course, in the classroom, in the community and in life."
Wilson comes to Madison after spending five seasons as the head men's golf coach at Alabama-Birmingham (UAB) where he was a two-time Conference USA Coach of the Year (2020 and 2021) and helped the Blazers to an appearance in the 2021 NCAA Championship. Wilson's Blazers climbed to a No. 5 national ranking in Nov. of 2020 after posting an undefeated fall season. The No. 5 ranking is the highest in program history.
Prior to UAB, Wilson served as head coach and director of golf at Charleston Southern where his team earned a 2016 NCAA Regional appearance, the first-ever at-large postseason berth for any sport in school history. He was also a two-time Big South Coach of the Year (2012 and 2016).
Prior to an extensive professional career coaching golf, Wilson played varsity golf at Charleston Southern and was a member of the dean's list as a double-major in communications and psychology. He earned his bachelor's degree from CSU in 1999.
Wilson will begin his duties at Wisconsin in June.
What They're Saying About Mike Wilson ...
Chris Haack, Georgia (#14, NCAA Division I Ranking)
"I think Mike is an exceptional coach and connects great with his players! The Badgers just made the Big Ten even better!"
Scott Schroeder, North Florida (#21)
"Mike has done a great job everywhere he has been helping his players perform to the best of their abilities. I would expect him to do the same in building the Badger Golf Program."
Brad McMakin, Arkansas (#15)
"I've coached against Mike Wilson for many years and Mike is not only one of the best coaches in the country, but a great person! He will do a great job at Wisconsin and be a great representative of the University!!"
Carter Collins, Georgia Southern (#44)
"Congratulations to both Wisconsin and Coach Wilson. What a great hire! I have all the faith in the world Coach Mike will take this program to the next level. His track record at Charleston Southern and UAB speaks for itself. I'm so happy for him and his family and can't wait to watch what this program accomplished in seasons to come."
