Burckley Steps Down as Yellowjacket Golf Coach

BILLINGS, MT (June 27, 2005) - Montana State University-Billings Athletics Director Dr. Gary Gray announced Monday that Roger Burckley will resign his position as head men’s golf coach effective June 30, 2005.  Burckley has been the Yellowjackets’ head coach for the past two seasons.

“I want to thank Roger for the progress he has made with our men’s golf program over the past two years,” said Gray.  “We will immediately begin a search for a new coach so we can continue that progress in the future.”

The Yellowjackets finished second at the Pacific West Conference Championships in April and had three all-conference players.  MSU Billings also qualified its first player for NCAA Regional play this season when freshman Nicholas Larson qualified for the NCAA West Regional.  MSU Billings added men’s and women’s golf just three years ago.

“I wish I could continue, but my family is my biggest responsibility,” said Burckley.  “I’m really excited about the direction of the program, and I plan to continue to help out any way I can.  My goal is to make the transition as smooth as possible.”

Burckley and his wife Kristen had their second baby boy this spring.  Their oldest son, Jackson, is two and a half years old, and their newest son, Maclian, is eight weeks.

Burckley plans to work full time at Mitchell Golf in Billings.  Mitchell Golf is the indoor practice facility for the Yellowjacket men’s and women’s teams.  He says that he already has a full roster of 12 players for next season and will have the schedule wrapped up soon.  In addition, Burckley has resigned Sun Mountain Sports to another contract to outfit the Yellowjackets with bags and apparel.