The University of Minnesota and Director of Golf Brad James today announced that Ernie Rose will be joining the Golden Gopher golf staff as an assistant coach. Rose, the Director of Instruction at Windsong Farm Golf Club in Independence, Minn., will primarily work with the Gopher women’s team, alongside James and associate head coach Kris Wessinger, and will focus on player development.

“The University of Minnesota is very excited to have Ernie as a member of its golf program,” said James. “He brings with him a wealth of knowledge, experience and dedication to our program and I know the players will benefit from his expertise.”

Rose, who has caddied for former Gopher All-American John Harris as well as Tom Kite on the Champions PGA Tour, turned pro in 2001 following a stellar junior college and Division I career. He won 10 individual titles as a member of the Midland Junior College golf team and was named a Division I NJCAA (National Junior College Athletic Association) First Team All-American in 2000. Rose also represented Midland Junior College in the World University Games in Northern Ireland following the 2000 season. He finished his collegiate career at the University of South Carolina.

A native of Melbourne, Australia, Rose started his professional career on the PGA Tour of Australasia and has also participated in the Tightlies Tour, The Hooter’s Tour, the Greygoose Tour, the Tarheel Tour, the Dakota’s Tour and the U.S. Pro Golf Tour since turning pro in 2001. Rose currently has conditional status on the PGA Tour of Australasia.