For the head coach of the men’s golf team, the game has always been about more than just the scorecard. Richard Ronneburger, better known as “Coach Ronn,” is in his eighth season at the helm and his 11th year of teaching.

The Brevard High alumni and Appalachian State graduate brings a “student-first” philosophy to the green that transcends the sport itself.

The team is currently navigating a competitive season, consistently finishing in the “middle of the pack.” However, the goal for this season is to claim spots in the regional competition, which Coach Ronn expects Loren Jones, Giovanni Sferrazza and Jameson Rybka to do.

“I try to put realistic expectations on both how I teach and how I coach,” he says. “My philosophy is to always do your best and hold yourself to a high standard. I want my players to reach their full potential, just as I do my students.”

Success on the course doesn’t happen by luck. The varsity roster of 10 players is expected to commit roughly 15 to 20 hours a week to their game. A typical practice starts at 3:30 p.m. at the range before the team breaks into groups to play as many holes as possible, typically ending practice once the sun starts to set.

While the coach is welcoming to new golfers, he is clear about the demands of the sport.

“It’s not realistic to think a beginner would play in matches,” he explains, noting that he looks for specific scoring averages when determining the five-man lineup for competition.

If the team had a walk-up song for the first tee, it would be “Industry Baby” by Lil Nas X, a shoutout to Loren Jones, who frequently sings it during practice.

Discipline and sportsmanship is rooted in the coach’s belief that golf is a “forever” sport. His advice to his high school self and his current players is simple:

“Try to live in the present… enjoy the time you have because these times are pretty short.”

As the team pushes toward regionals, they do so knowing they are learning a skill they can carry for the rest of their lives.

By Paula Garcia. Photos provided by Coach Ronn