Drew McGee has found a home. Again.
University of New Mexico men’s golf coach Glen Millican announced Thursday that McGee has joined the program as assistant coach.
“I am excited about the opportunity to join coach Millican and the University of New Mexico,” McGee said. “He has done a great job making the golf program a national contender on a yearly basis. This is the kind of program you look to join as a coach. I look forward to working with coach Millican and the team to help continue this successful tradition.”
McGee played collegiately at Baylor University, graduating in 2012. He was a member of the Big XII Commissioner’s honor roll for the Bears.
After graduation, McGee became a volunteer assistant coach at McNeese State in 2013. Then at the start of 2014, McGee had a golden opportunity to become head coach, running the men’s and women’s programs at NAIA Northwood University in Cedar, Hill, Texas.
His women’s team finished 10th at the NAIA Championships, and Daniela Martinez finished tied for fifth individually in the tournament.
But Northwood dropped the programs after the season, and McGee was on the hunt for another job. Then, in late summer, the Lobos found themselves in need of an assistant after Jim Garren left for the University of Oklahoma.
It was a perfect fit and perfect timing for McGee to bring his expertise to the UNM golf program.
“Through playing growing up, in high school, college, and amateur events, I am able to relate to both the good and bad experiences these guys have and will go through,” McGee said. “I’ve seen firsthand the kind of hard work, teamwork, and dedication that it takes to be successful. I want to display this kind of attitude and example to the guys on this team and help them achieve their full potential.”
Millican said McGee’s accumulation of experience at an early age was a big factor in the decision to bring him aboard.
“He played for a great program at Baylor and for a great (now former) coach in Greg Priest,” Millican said. “Then, he got to become an assistant at McNeese State. And now he comes here with the experience of running two programs as head coach at Northwood. He’s had the opportunity to see all three facets – player, assistant coach, head coach – quickly, of what men’s golf is about.”
Millican said McGee came highly recommended from current Baylor coach Mike McGraw and quickly saw why.
“He’s impressive when you talk to him,” Millican said. “He’s going to be a big benefit to our recruiting, and he has great knowledge of the game. He’s going to be a great fit for us.”