Date Posted: 7/15/2008

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - Former PGA Tour member Mike Blackburn was named head men's and women's golf coach at Jacksonville University on Tuesday by director of athletics Alan Verlander.

A resident of Jacksonville for more than 40 years, Blackburn has served as a teaching professional at Marsh Landing Country Club for the past 11 - teaching a number of junior players that went on to play at the highest levels in collegiate golf.

"We are pleased to bring in Mike to take over our men's and women's golf programs," said JU director of athletics Alan Verlander. "Mike brings a vast knowledge of the game, both from a playing and teaching perspective that we were looking for during the search. His contacts, both in the sport and around the city, will be a major boost to our programs as we build towards the goal of fielding top-rate teams."

A two-year letterwinner at Florida, Blackburn turned professional in 1979 and won 10 mini-tour events over the next nine years. He has played in the U.S. Open and recently qualified for the U.S. Senior Open in 2006.

After spending a season on the PGA Tour in 1988, Blackburn turned his focus to teaching and has spent the past 19 years working at golf courses around Jacksonville - including The Ravines Golf Club, Baymeadows Golf Club and Windsor Parke Golf Club.

During his teaching career, he has worked with high-caliber players to beginners. Some of his most notable pupils are former PLAYERS champion Mark McCumber as well as Andy Bean.

"Mike's reputation in this community and throughout the golf industry is one of tremendous character, dedication and passion for the game of golf," said Bill Hughes, general manager of the TPC at Sawgrass. "As a former TOUR player and life-long student of the game, Mike Blackburn has the experience both on and off the golf course that is invaluable in an instruction, mentoring and coaching setting."