Grace College will add women’s golf starting in the fall of 2015. Shown above (from left) are Chad Briscoe, Denny Duncan, Bill Katip and Jim Swanson (Photo provided by the Grace College Sports Information Department)

WINONA LAKE – Grace College has announced the addition of a new sport as women’s golf will debut beginning in the fall of 2015.

The Lancers, under athletic director Chad Briscoe, will offer 15 varsity intercollegiate sports with the inclusion of women’s golf next fall. The team will be coached by Denny Duncan.

“The excitement of adding another athletic program is great for our campus. I appreciate the support of Dr. Katip, Dr. Swanson and the board to continue growing the athletic department,” Briscoe said. “Denny is a natural fit not only from his tremendous golf knowledge and background, but also from his ability to recruit in the community and regionally. He is a true man of Christian character who we know will lead this team the right way to uphold the mission of Grace.”

Denny Duncan will serve as the team’s first head coach. Duncan has worked in education as an administrator or teacher for 34 years, including over 20 years in adjunct work for Grace. His daughter Elena was a four-year letter winner and NAIA National Qualifier for Malone University’s women’s golf team, currently working as an assistant golf pro at Sycamore Hills Golf Club in Fort Wayne.

“I’m thrilled to have this opportunity to work with student-athletes who love competition and want to live in a way that honors Jesus Christ,” Duncan said. “I see the game of golf as a lifelong pursuit that mirrors our walk with Christ. I also know the industry of golf has many opportunities for young women, so I look forward to helping the ladies further their goals in golf.”

Women’s golf will begin full-fledged competition in the Crossroads League in its first season next fall. The Crossroads League is slated to feature all 10 institutions participating in 2015 for the first time. The winner of the league tournament is eligible to compete at NAIA Nationals each season.

“Adding women’s golf was one of the top priorities of our Lancer Task Force three years ago. It seems like a natural fit to our campus and to our community, especially since we live in a great golf community,” said Grace president Dr. Bill Katip. “Women’s golf is an extension of our athletic mission, and the program complements our women student-athletes on campus.”

Those interested in playing golf at Grace can contact Coach Duncan by email at [email protected] or go to www.GCLancers.com.