BANNER ELK, N.C. – President Lee King and Director of Athletics & Club Sports Ed Winters announced the return of men's golf and the addition of women's golf for the fall of 2026. Lees-McRae will partner with Linville Ridge Country Club to be the home of the Bobcats. The additions of men's and women's golf will bring the total number of intercollegiate programs to 30 and expand the student-athlete population to well over 400.
"I know this will be an excellent addition to our ever-expanding athletics program," said King. "I am particularly grateful to Linville Ridge, who has generously agreed to partner with the college and will extend the use of their golf course to our team. Their world-class training environment and championship are sure to breed champions."
Linville Ridge is the highest elevated golf course east of the Mississippi River at 4,949 feet above sea level and provides an unrivaled golf experience with views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
"Linville Ridge Country Club is thrilled to support Lees-McRae College as they launch their new collegiate golf program," said Linville Ridge Country Club Director of Golf Matt Benton. "This partnership reflects a shared commitment to the growth of the game and the development of student-athletes. We look forward to providing a first-class environment where they can train, compete, and grow."
A national search for a full-time head coach is underway. If you are interested in becoming a Bobcat golfer, please visit https://lmcbobcats.com/sb_output.aspx?form=29.
For more information on Lees-McRae Athletics, follow the Bobcats on X (@LMCBobcats), on Facebook (Lees-McRae Athletics), and on Instagram (leesmcraeathletics).
