Ryan Williams looks to lead Cleveland State women’s golf program after taking the job back in August. Before coming to CSU, Williams was the head coach for both women’s and men’s golf at Adrian College for an eight-year stint.

Williams takes over after the program did not play last season due to COVID-19 restrictions. He is looking to build on the success Director of Golf Steve Weir created with the golf program here at Cleveland State.

“When you look at the men’s side, they have this long history of success,” Williams said. “We have had some success here on the women’s side, it’s just now making it consistent.”

Cleveland State is one of many teams looking to get back on the golf course this season. They are also looking to add to the success of the program in many areas. One of those areas is fundraising. At Adrian College, Williams led a fundraising program that netted around $25,000-$30,000 annually and now he hopes to bring that success to Cleveland State.

“Weir already has a great fundraising program set in place,” Williams said. “I want to introduce some of my ideas and connect to alumni, making them feel a part of the program.”

Another area Williams looks to build on is recruiting. Williams believes that having eight people on the roster is a good spot to be in. Currently, there are seven players on the roster for the women’s golf program. In order to fill that spot and those open in the future, Williams knows what he’s looking for in recruits.

“We want players that want to be here at Cleveland State,” Williams said. “This is a unique campus and it offers a unique opportunity.”

The student-athletes that are already on campus include seniors Madison Butler and Meg Russow. Also joining the team is Sabrina Coffman, a graduate transfer from Saginaw Valley State University. 

Williams discussed what these three upper-classmen bring to the program this season.

“Those three have definitely emerged as our leaders so far this season,” Williams said. “They (Butler and Russow) have experience playing at these events. Their experience will help us build a strategy.”

Butler is now entering her fifth and final year of eligibility. Both Russow and Coffman have the option to return for an additional year. In doing so, it will allow their leadership and experience to return for another season. 

Williams also gave his thoughts on all the players in the program and their first competition. 

“I’m excited to see how they approach the day,” Williams said. “I still have a lot to learn about each individual on the team, and how we are as a team. I’m excited about that.”

The Vikings look to compete in five events this fall with Williams, adding that they are still finalizing their spring schedule. However, Williams is ready to get the season started.

“I have seen a lot from them in practice and qualifying,” Williams said. “It is a whole ‘nother animal as far as playing in tournaments, preparing for tournaments, and how they handle themselves.”

They teed off their season with the first competition on Sept. 13 at Youngstown State University for the Roseann Schwartz Invitational. The team will follow up by playing in the Cardinal Classic on Sept. 20 and the Golden Grizzlies Invitational on Sept. 27.