PITTSBURG — Pittsburg State University Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Jim Johnson announced today that Nick Long has been hired to serve as head coach for the Gorillas men's and women's golf programs.

Pitt State will restart its men's golf program in 2024-25 and launch a women's golf program beginning in 2025-26.

"We are tremendously excited to have Nick Long return to campus to lead our men's and women's golf programs," Johnson. "Nick has tremendous expertise as well as passion for the game and for his alma mater. He's a familiar face locally and active in the golf community in Pittsburg. We have the right person coming on board for this exciting new era in our athletic department."

Long played golf at Pitt State from 2000-03, serving as a team captain his final two seasons for the Gorillas. He also served as an assistant golf professional at Crestwood Country Club from 2004-07. The Leavenworth, Kan., native earned a Bachelor's of Business Administration degree from Pittsburg State in 2009.

Long, who resides in Pittsburg with his wife, Ashley, and two daughters, returns to campus after working in the private sector since his graduation from Pitt State.

"This opportunity to lead the resurrection of the men's golf program and the build out of a women's golf program is a tremendous honor and something I will not take for granted," Long said. "Pittsburg State student-athletes have along history of success in the classroom and in their respective sports; and I will do everything I can to make sure the golf programs live up to those expectations. We will compete at the highest levels while being good students and role models for younger generations; and we will be involved in our community."

Long becomes the first full-time coach to lead the men's program.

Pitt State suspended the men's program following the 2013-14 season. The program will now return to campus following a 10-year hiatus. Pitt State will begin the process of creating a first-ever women's golf program to launch in the 2025-26 season.

Both programs will practice and host home meets at Crestwood Country Club.

"Previously, we have employed part-time coaches, or coaches with additional duties, to lead our men's program," Johnson said. "Bringing Nick on staff helps fulfill our commitment to having a full-time coach devoted solely to the golf program as well as a coach with collegiate and amateur playing experience."

Johnson indicated the university plans to add a graduate assistant coaching position in the summer of 2025 to aid in the administration of both programs.