July 25, 2007
The Patriot League recently conducted a brief question and answer session with Navy Golf Head Coach Pat Owen. Owen has been at the helm of the Mids' golf squad for the last 16 years, leading Navy to four Patriot League Championship titles. He has been honored by his peers at the Patriot League Coach of the Year five times.
PL: How did you get into coaching golf?
PO: I have competed in golf at every level since an early age, and some of my most memorable experiences stem from playing on the golf team while at Johns Hopkins. When I came to work at the Naval Academy, my goal was to become a PGA Professional, but I also found that I really enjoyed working with the Midshipmen on the golf team. When the opportunity to become the head coach arose, I accepted the position, and am now entering my 17th year as Navy's coach.
PL: How does it feel to be a five-time winner of Patriot League Coach of the Year award?
PO: Coach of the Year awards are nice because it indicates that your coaching peers feel you are doing a good job. Navy has won four Patriot League golf titles - I would trade my five Coach of the Year awards for five additional Patriot League Championships any day!
PL: Having coached in the Patriot League since 1992 how has the overall quality of play changed over the course of the last 16 seasons?
PO: The quality of play has improved tremendously. In 1992, if your team score was under 300 for an 18-hole round, your team would be competitive in most events. Today, if your team shoots a 300, you're lucky to be in the top 10 in many events. There are many factors that can drive scores higher, such as weather and course conditions, but the average scores are so much lower today. I believe there are many more competitive opportunities for junior golfers today than there were in 1992, which means that young golfers have an easier time making the transition to college golf, and in a shorter period of time.
PL: Share your thoughts on coaching in the Patriot League - a conference that prides itself on the scholar-athlete model.
PO: It is a real thrill to coach in the Patriot League! I have met so many great student athletes who have gone on to successful careers after graduation, both at Navy and from the other schools. Each university seems to have a unique identity and a very traditional feel. I love visiting the other campuses. There are some great golf courses out there as well. I enjoy watching the evolution of Patriot League golfers from wide-eyed freshmen to self-assured seniors.
PL: Any special plans for the summer?
PO: I also work as the Director of Golf at the Naval Academy Golf Course, so summer is a very busy time for me. I love to go to the golf course every day and interact with our members. I also get to spend some great time outdoors with my wife and two children. Summer in Annapolis is the best!
