Over the years, Clarke University's golf team has seen various coaches lead the program. This year, however, marks a significant change, as Clarke welcomed Brock Hartley as the new Golf Director. Hartley is the first person at Clarke to hold this title. Before joining Clarke, Hartley attended William Penn University, where he played on the golf team and later served as a Graduate Assistant (GA) for two years.
Photo Credits: Brett Tudela (Sports Information Department)
Hartley, along with Graduate Assistant Alijah Dopson, has taken a more focused approach to recruiting. Dopson, who has played golf for Clarke over the past three years, is serving as a GA for the first time this year. Together, they have prioritized recruiting players who not only excel in their skills but are also committed to personal growth and contributing to the team’s overall success. This renewed focus on recruitment has brought a sense of energy and excitement to the program. Their primary goal this year has been to expand the golf program, and recruitment has been the first step.
In a conversation with Jessi Wagner, a member of the women’s golf team, she shared that this year feels noticeably different from past seasons. This is Jessi’s second year at Clarke, and she has welcomed many of the changes, including the shift from having separate men’s and women’s coaches to a unified coaching team. Hartley and Dopson’s joint leadership of both the men’s and women’s teams has fostered greater integration between the two groups. While last year Jessi primarily connected with her women’s teammates, this year’s structure has created a new environment where players from both teams connect and support one another. Hartley’s leadership has introduced a fresh perspective to the program, driving growth in both skills and team relationships.
Clarke has experienced several coaching changes in its golf program over recent years, which can make it challenging for teams to feel stable and secure in their roles. Frequent turnover may discourage athletes who feel they are not receiving the experience they anticipated. When athletes sense they are being treated as a lower priority, it can lead to frustration, diminished confidence, and even a decision to leave the team. Feeling out of place in an environment where they should feel supported can negatively impact a player’s self-esteem and their ability to perform, both individually and as part of the team.
While expanding a team is an exciting goal, it also brings challenges, particularly in securing the funding needed to sustain growth. The Clarke golf teams are actively seeking financial support to cover essential needs such as equipment, transportation, and other resources.
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