Admissons


UWMC Varsity Golf - The First 50 Years

1967-70 UWMC Conference Runner-Up TeamA brief history of team and individual accomplishments at UW-Marathon County.

UW-Marathon County officially opened its doors full-time at the central school in 1946-47, to provide educational opportunities for WWII veterans. The first golf season summary found was by Ralph Stueber. He noted that during 1954-55 the UWMC golf team played in three matches including the 36-hole, all-school tournament. This was the first year of more than slight interest. The Wausau Extension golfers played their first match ever at Menasha on the Appleton municipal course on Friday, May 13th, winning 503 to 569. Dave Raab, Wausau, took medalist honors with a 79 (40-39). Curtis Jackson, also of Wausau, fired an 87. The team was coached by Ralph Stueber.

Stueber later notes that during 1956-57, one triangular was played at UW-Green Bay, a two-year campus then. A conference tournament was also played, but with no student rates, it resulted in an expensive program. Bob Mansfield, A.D. from the fall of 1957 through spring 1961, noted that, “The usual late spring makes it difficult for anyone to get the interest up.” It does appear that he fielded teams during his first three seasons with one finishing second at Racine; the highest Wausau had ever finished in the conference meet. The campus did not offer golf in 1960-61 due to budget problems. Season reports in the campus archives begin to steadily appear beginning in 1961-62; five men participated that year. Bill Marshall, (Fall 1961-Spring 1965), coached for four seasons and noted that Larry Olson (Mathematics) assisted with the golf program during 1963-64 and 1964-65. Clay Stebbins reported that the campus fielded teams from 1965-66 through 1974, which he coached. Larry Olson again provided assistance during 1973-74 and 1974-75. Duane Stremlau took over the coaching responsibilities in the fall of 1975 and continues to the present, with Larry Olson assisting many seasons. Ed Osypowski (Physics) also assisted the program at various times, and Harlan Grinde supported our efforts over the years. More recently Nolan “Whiz” Beck (Student Services) and Mike Stahnke, Sr. (parent of a player), also made significant contributions. UWMC did not field varsity squads during 1995-96 and 1996-97, due to budgetary limitations.

Larry Olson deserves special recognition and thanks for his many years of selfless service, support and loyalty. He freely provided1983-84 WCC Championship Team thoughtful guidance and shared his skill and enthusiasm for the game with many teams and our coaches.

Women have also participated in the program. We appreciate the support of Jill Fredel, Mosinee (1978-79 and 1979-80) and Corina Jo Norrbom, Wittenberg-Birnamwood (1987-88). Jill also earned All-Conference honors in woman’s basketball during both her freshman and sophomore seasons.

Gene Musolf (Geography/Geology) served as the campus faculty representative to the WCC Conference for at least 22 years. He was a strong advocate and supporter of all of the UWMC golf squads and all other varsity teams here during his long career and he continues after retirement. Larry Olson and Joel Case later served in that position showing great support for the golf program.

Although many fine players are not mentioned in this brief summary, their omission does not diminish our respect and appreciation for their efforts and accomplishments. We commend all players for their consistent devotion and dedicated play often during difficult conditions, including strong winds, low temperatures, rain and even light snow.