26 Jul 2023 Harding names golf coach

SEARCY – Harding University proudly announced the appointment of Travis Lauterbach as the head men’s and women’s golf coach on Monday. Lauterbach’s impressive credentials and extensive experience make him an ideal fit for the position, where he will replace Dustin Howell, who has transitioned into a full-time role within the provost office as the university compliance officer and continues as institutional research analyst.

Harding athletic director Jeff Morgan expressed his gratitude to Dustin Howell, saying: “We really appreciate Dustin and his 15 years of service as our golf coach. He did a great job growing both programs, and we wish him the best with his expanded role in the provost office.”

Lauterbach, who has served as the athletics compliance officer at Harding since June 2021, expressed his deep connection to the university: “Harding has meant a lot to me ever since I was a student,” Lauterbach shared. “In my coaching career, I thought it would be fun to come back and coach golf here. I am honored to have this opportunity and excited to work with both the men’s and women’s golf teams. Our family looks forward to being a part of these athletes’ lives.”

Before his tenure at Harding, Lauterbach made his mark in the coaching realm, serving as the men’s and women’s golf coach at Lyon College in Batesville, Arkansas, from 2017 to 2020. Additionally, he gained valuable experience as an assistant coach at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia, during the 2016-17 season.

However, Lauterbach’s coaching journey began as the head coach of the men’s and women’s golf teams at Faulkner University in Montgomery, Alabama, from 2012 to 2017, during which he was recognized as the Southern States Athletic Conference Coach of the Year in 2013.

Before venturing into coaching, Lauterbach immersed himself in the world of golf as a full-time caddie from 2009 to 2012. He carried the bag at prestigious establishments such as Augusta National Golf Club, Whistling Straits, TPC Sawgrass, TPC Potomac, and the Maroon Creek Golf Club. Lauterbach’s exceptional skills even earned him the title of Caddie of the Year at TPC Potomac in 2009.

Lauterbach’s educational background includes a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education, which he obtained from Harding University in 2006, followed by a master’s degree in business administration in 2007. He was a member of the Harding golf team from 2002-04.

“Coach Lauterbach has extensive experience as a player, college head coach and caddie,” Morgan said. “We look forward to his leadership on and off the course for the young men and women in our golf program.”

Travis Lauterbach and his wife, Lara, are the parents of three children: Collins, Cade, and Luke.