EAU CLAIRE, Wis. (Blugolds.com) – University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire Athletic Director Jason Verdugo has announced the elevation of men's golf coach Darrin Skinner to director of men's and women's golf on Wednesday. 

After spending six years in UWEC Athletics, Skinner is excited about the opportunity to shape the future of Blugold Golf. This is the first time UWEC Athletics has had a full-time staff member dedicated to leading the golf teams. 

"I want to thank Jason and Associate Athletic Director Robin Baker for the opportunity to continue to work with Blugold student-athletes. I look forward to continuing the success of the men's program as they climb the national ranks and am excited to help the women's program follow suit" said Skinner. 

During the 2023-24 season, Skinner helped lead the men's program to 27th overall in the NCAA Division III rankings and saw junior Nick Amtmann set the school record for lowest round of 18 with a score of 63. As a team, the men's side captured three tournament wins and placed 4th or better in all five of their spring meets. 

Skinner was hired as the head men's and women's golf coach in April of 2018. Under his leadership, the men's team has received eight All-Region honors and five individual All-America honors. In 2022, UWEC's Lexi Meade was named WIAC Player of the Year. He coached the men to nine tournament victories and the women to three tournament wins. During the 2019-20 season, the men's golf team set a single season scoring record and finished the year ranked 9th in the nation. 

Skinner played golf for North Dakota State University where he earned his bachelor's degree.  

Skinner and his wife, Dr. Andrea Skinner, reside in Altoona with their three children, Karalyn, Elliot and Alexandra.