University of Hawai'i at Manoa Athletics

Entering her sixth year, head coach Marge Strubblefield knows she and her University of Hawai`i Women's golf team is ready and willing to reach new heights.  The former LPGA Tour player and recent inductee into the Hawai`i Golf Hall of Fame knows what it takes to reach the top and is confident in her players and their ability to reach their individual and team goals.

Born and raised in Hawai`i, Strubblefield grew up playing the game she loves right in her own backyard.  Living in a family home situated between the second and third holes of the Mid-Pacific Country CLub, and coming froma  golfing family, she found it natural to pursue her dream of playing professionally.

After playing for UH and achieving a second and fifth place finish in the AIAW nationals, Strubblefield qualified for the LPGA Tour where she competed until injuries forced her to leave the Tour in 1984.  After the Tour she began her teaching association with Olomana Golf Links, where she still enjoys being an instructor.

However, when the opportunity to coach at her alma mater presented itself, she welcomed the challenge.

"This last year has been a really great experience for all of us, players and coach alike," Strubblefield said. "We have each grown individually and as a team.  I feel confident our team will make great strides this year, both in scoring and ranking.  The players are ready to put in the work to reach our team and individual goals."

Her vision for putting the UH women's golf team on the map includes recruiting quality players locally, nationally and globally.  That vision is already coming into fruition with a roster of players this year from hawai`i, the Mainland U.S. and Sweden.  Strubblefield has two goals for her team: developing successful players who qualify for the NCAA Championship and more importantly, cultivating young women with excellent work ethics and strong character.

According to Strubblefield, Hawai`i has all the ingredients to become a nationally-ranked golf powerhouse.

"We have challenging and beautiful golf courses, terrific weather all year and a wonderfully supportive ohana of golfers," she said.  "I know, from my experience on the Tour, how important it is to have support when you are home and away.  The golfing family in this state is the best."