REDLANDS, Calif. – University of Redlands Head Men's Golf Coach Jamie Zantua recapped the 2021-22 season in our next edition of Coaches' Corner.
Looking back on the season, what were some of the highlights?
This past 2021-22 men's golf season had a lot of highlights. Some that stood out included Jake Yim (Freshman) finishing in 2nd place at SCIAC No. 1 at Olivas Links Golf Club scoring even par for two rounds (73-71). Joshua Fambro's (Junior) stellar play at SCIAC No. 2 winning low medalist shooting 7-under for two days (67-70) played at Mountain Meadows Golf Club. The team finishing in 2nd Place at this year's SCIAC Championships at Morongo Golf Club at Tukwet Canyon led by Spencer Leader (Junior) placing 2nd individually shooting one-over for three days (71-73-73). Lastly, a trio of Bulldogs being named All-SCIAC, Senior Kyle Sharp (1st Team), Junior Joshua Fambro (1st Team), and Senior Jared Stone (2nd Team).
How would your players describe you as a leader? What is your leadership style?
I believe that my players would describe me as a very competitive and passionate coach. Doesn't matter if it's during practice or out in a tournament, they know I'll be out there pushing them, motivating them, making sure they stay in the moment. As they enter a tournament, I make sure that they did all they can do to prepare themselves for battle. I like to compare my leadership style to the great Phil Jackson. I make sure that all my players are accountable during practice and do the work they need to succeed. Once they are out there on the course, I trust that the grind and hard work they do will produce the results that we worked hard for.
What is your vision for the program and coaching philosophy?
The vision I have for the men's golf program has always been the same since I was fortunate to be named the Head Coach, which is to lead an NCAA Division III ranked golf program in a very competitive conference to success, while giving the players the tools to win many tournaments, conference championships, and to consistently play for a national championship.
My coaching philosophy has always been making sure we put in the work needed to be ready and prepared for tournaments.
How do you attack recruiting heading into this offseason?
As far as recruiting, I try to look for players who will make an immediate impact for the team and are ready to play and contribute.
What was your most memorable moment as a coach this season?
This season has so many memorable moments, but the biggest one that stands out to me are the memories we have experienced throughout the year. The traveling, hanging out together as a group, and getting to know each other throughout the season is what I enjoyed the most. The individual wins and great play we had this season was just the icing on the cake.
What differentiates the University of Redlands to other like institutions? What drew you to coach here at the U of R?
I truly believe the family atmosphere that not just my golf team but in all athletics at Redlands is what makes us different from the other institutions. I feel that we're always there for one another and the support we give and get from the other programs is something that other institutions don't experience. What drew me to coach at the University of Redlands was the winning mentality that the golf team possesses.