BALTIMORE — In early September, Coppin State University proudly announced the introduction of its inaugural golf team, set to begin next fall. This milestone is a significant achievement for the Baltimore-based university, as the excitement surrounding the new program grows with the recent signing of its first athlete.
The university appointed Elam Ruff as the head coach for both the men’s and women’s golf teams in mid-September. Previously, Ruff was associated with Fairham College, a Division 2 institution in Virginia, where he successfully recruited the largest class in the college’s history.
Coppin State University launches its first-ever golf program, welcomes top international recruit
Coppin State launches its inaugural golf program, signs a leading international recruit
“My grandfather introduced me to golf when I was a child,” Ruff reflected. “I’ve been involved in coaching for about eight years. It was something I stumbled into but grew to love and embrace fully.”
Ruff is dedicated to seeking out the right student-athletes for this new golf initiative.
“I’m on the lookout for potential stars, both on the course and off. I want energetic kids who may have begun their golf journey later in life but possess the talent I’m eager to identify,” Ruff noted.
The coach believes he has discovered such a talent in Jevahn Sathasivam, the first-ever men’s golf signee, who is recognized as the top junior golfer from Sri Lanka.
“I learned about him shortly after starting my role here and our connection blossomed from a simple Zoom call that included him, his father, and his mother. Everything just fell into place,” Ruff explained. “In the last two years, he has won eight tournaments, which is exceptional.”
For Ruff, the honor of being the head coach who signed the very first athlete for this new program is especially meaningful, particularly with someone of Sathasivam’s talent.
“I’m thankful for the support from our administration because, as I mentioned, we are in the early stages of this journey. There might not be much established yet, but they believe in us,” Ruff emphasized.
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