Longtime NMU coach to retire
Northern Michigan University men’s golf coach Dean Ellis will retire from coaching the Wildcats golf team on January 3, 2014.
“I would like to thank Northern Michigan University for allowing me the privilege to coach for over 33 years in Marquette,” said Ellis in a press release. “It has allowed me the opportunity to work and raise my family in my hometown of Negaunee. My sincere gratitude goes to my parents, Pappy and Ruth Ellis and to my wife Lois and our sons Coach Dan Ellis and Coach Dave Ellis.”
Ellis has been with the Wildcat golf program since 1993. This past fall, the NMU golf team finished in eighth place at the GLIAC Golf Championships. The Wildcats finished in 14th place at the NCAA Regionals.
“Dean is an excellent teacher and great to work with,” said Karr. “He will be missed. Fortunately, he is planning to help us find another quality coach with similar passion for helping young men improve.”
Ellis became head coach of the men’s basketball team in 1986. He posted a 369-303 record, becoming the winningest coach in program history in January 2005.
A national search will begin immediately to find Ellis’ replacement.