Auburn, ME – Newly appointed golf coach, Shaun McKinnon, has jumped right into his new role as head coach of a college program and is ready to take the team to new heights.
McKinnon attended USM where he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in History with a minor in Educational Studies and a concentration in Political Science. Just this May, he graduated with a Master of Science degree in Education. While attending USM, he was a 4-year member of the golf team and chosen as a captain his senior year.
Coach McKinnon currently teaches at Edward Little High School in the Social Studies Department. He is the Varsity Girls Lacrosse coach and volunteers his time with the golf team. When it comes down to where he gets his golf swings in, he is a member at the Martindale Country Club, but enjoys exploring the many golf courses in Maine. After recently being named the head coach of the golf team here at CM and McKinnon has already focused on how he can build this program back up. "I am grateful to be the head golf coach here at CM and I look forward to creating a successful program," shared McKinnon.
For McKinnon, it can be difficult bringing back a program that once existed. Recruiting new athletes, finding a home course and other schools to play are only a few challenges any new golf coach may have to deal with at the beginning of their career. So far, it seems like Coach McKinnon is up to the task! When speaking to how he is looking to build the program, McKinnon answered, "I want to make CMCC the premier golf program in the state of Maine. I am recruiting athletes that are committed to excellence and have a love for the game. I will be reaching out to high school golfers around the country to introduce our program."
His process of recruiting athletes has included reaching out to every golf coach in the state of Maine and New Hampshire and introducing himself and the CM golf program. He also has sent letters to all of the athletic directors in the state of Maine to connect with any potential golf athlete they may have in their school. As the CM golf program grows and gains traction, McKinnon will attend various tournaments throughout the year to watch high school golfers compete.
As an educator, McKinnon believes that making connections with students and instilling in them the importance of education is the main objective. He takes this same approach to athletics as his main goal of coaching is to make it a positive experience for all of his athletes. McKinnon added, "Athletics provides life skills that will be used in all facets of their lives moving forward. Perseverance, hard work, and a commitment to excellence supersede athletics." Having his student-athletes find success on the course isn't his only goal, as he wants them to be successful in the classroom and within the community as well.
There's no doubt that with this philosophy and commitment to the golf program that Coach McKinnon will be a valuable leader for his student-athletes. Keep an eye on the Mustang golf team this academic year as they get set to be successful on and off the course!
Are you interested in playing golf at CM? Contact Coach McKinnon for more information.
