Mercure to Take Over Cougar Women’s Golf Program

(Howell, MI)-- For the first time since the program's inception, there will be a new head coach for the Cleary University women's golf program.  Christian Mercure has been named the program's second ever head coach, after coach Bob Fillipps has transitioned into a new role within the program.

"We are very excited to have Christian leading the women's golf team here at Cleary," said Athletic Director Max Ballinger.  "His passion for our university and the game of golf are instrumental in maintaining the standards that Bob (Fillipps) has already established, and we are very excited to keep taking steps to challenge within the WHAC and NAIA."

Mercure had been a member of the Cleary University baseball coaching staff for the past three seasons, spending one year as an assistant coach and recruiting coordinator, and two years as a graduate assistant coach.  He played baseball collegiately for Grand Valley State University, but was an all-state golfer for Trenton High School.  

While at Trenton, Mercure made multiple appearances at the MHSAA state tournament, making it to the final tournament his sophomore season in 2013, and his senior year in 2015.  

"I'd thank Max Ballinger for giving me this opportunity.  I'm super excited to continue my coaching career at Cleary.  I'd also like to thank Coach (Drew) Maki for giving me the opportunity to get my Master's and learn how to run a successful program.  His mentorship has helped me tremendously, and will help me in my new journey in golf."

"I'd also like to thank Coach (Bob) Fillipps for starting the program, and running it in a way that has represented the University on and off the course at the highest level.  I look forward to working with him in the future, and continuing the success he has started and built."

Outgoing coach Bob Fillipps is transitioning to a new role as assistant women's golf coach and director of golf operations, and will still assist in the behind the scenes tasks associated with the running of the program, including help running and organizing the multiple home tournaments that the Cleary golf teams host each season.

Ballinger has only positives to say about Fillipps, saying, "We are eternally grateful for all the work that Bob (Fillipps) has put into the program, and as the only coach to date to lead this team, his list of accomplishments are plentiful.  To still want to help the program just goes to show the type of person Bob is."

Fillipps, pictured below, was the program's first ever head coach, having been named the coach in 2012.  He led the Cougars to a USCAA national runner-up finish in 2015, and coached USCAA All-American Madison Smith, who was also the medalist at the USCAA national championships in 2016.

Mercure looks to keep the momentum going from this year's best ever WHAC finish, saying, "My goals are to continue to have high standards in the classroom, and on the course.  I know the team is coming off the best finish in school history, and we will do whatever we can to take the next step forward in building this program within the WHAC and at the national level."