On January 18, NC State head men's golf coach Richard Sykes announced that he would be stepping down from his position at the conclusion of the 2016-17 season.
Inducted into the Golf Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2001, Sykes has been NC State's head coach for the last 46 seasons. He is the longest tenured member of the GCAA.
Sykes led the Wolfpack to its first ACC men's golf championship in 1990 and recruited and coached Matt Hill, the Wolfpack's first NCAA individual champion (2009).
Sykes has led his teams to 52 total tournament wins, averaging more than one per season. He has guided his squads to 23 NCAA Regional and 12 NCAA Championship appearances.
Under the guidance of Sykes, NC State has earned:
47 All-ACC selections
34 All-Americans
Six ACC individual champions
Five NCAA Regional individual champions
Three ACC Rookies of the Year
Two ACC Players of the Year
Many of Sykes' former golfers--including Tim Clark and Carl Pettersson--are still having success in the professional ranks.
"I love NC State and have been a part of it for the past 46 years. It has been a dream come true. My age is now an even-par 72. Since we try to keep scores at par or better, it is time for me to step aside. Hopefully as the season goes along, I will have the opportunity to thank all of the players, their families, donors, NC State administrators, and fans who have made my time here so special."
Thank you, Coach Sykes!