Sullivan named head of SE Golf Program

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  • Gipper Sullivan is set to lead the golf program at Southeastern Oklahoma State University. Courtesy photo
    Gipper Sullivan is set to lead the golf program at Southeastern Oklahoma State University. Courtesy photo
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DURANT, Okla. – Southeastern Director of Athletics Keith Baxter has announced the hiring of Gipper Sullivan to head the Savage Storm men’s golf program.

Sullivan, the grandson of Southeastern Hall of Famer and long-time athletic director Bloomer Sullivan, makes the transition to collegiate golf after 30 years coaching at the secondary school level across a variety of sports.

“I’m looking forward to returning to Southeastern. This University means a lot to myself and my family. Getting the opportunity to return to the golf program is exciting, and I look forward to building on the tradition the program has put together since its return. I am eager to get to campus and get to know the faculty and the athletes.”

“We are excited about Coach Sullivan leading our Men’s Golf program,” said Baxter. “He has many ties to SE and SE Athletics, being the Grandson of Bloomer Sullivan, and will provide great leadership for team.”

Sullivan is no stranger to Southeastern golf as he coached the 1989 team at the Oklahoma Intercollegiate Conference Championships in place of then-coach Nick Keith.

He would go on to earn his master’s at SE that year and made the move to the secondary school level in 1990 at Wichita Falls ISD.

After one school year there he would move north to Fort Leavenworth, Kan., to USD 207 where he taught social studies and physical education over his 29 years.

He would also serve as a track and field coach for the entire 29 years on staff, while also coaching football, basketball, cross country, and wrestling.

On the links, he is a PGA SNAG Certified Instructor who has worked at differing levels of golf.

As a juniors coach he has worked with player Nancy Hoins of the Women’s European Golf League and has worked a range of PGA events including the US Senior Open. Additionally, he has participated in multiple tournaments and has experience as a golf club designer.

Sullivan earned his undergraduate degree for Southeastern in 1988 and added his master’s a year later in 1989.