Mary Ritchie Appointed Head Coach of Fresno State Women’s Golf
Fresno, California – Fresno State has officially announced the appointment of Mary Ritchie as the new head coach for its women’s golf program, as confirmed by Director of Athletics Garrett Klassy.
“We’re excited to welcome Mary to Fresno,” Klassy stated. “Her extensive experience in building championship teams, alongside her commitment to the holistic development of student-athletes in academics, athletics, and the community, positions her perfectly as we enter the competitive landscape of the Pac-12. We believe her vision and culture-first approach will significantly elevate Bulldog women’s golf.”
Background and Achievements
Ritchie arrives in the San Joaquin Valley after an impressive 11-year tenure at UC Riverside, where she served as head coach of the women’s team. Under her guidance, the Highlanders won their inaugural Big West title in 2016 and secured six tournament victories. Ritchie’s coaching history also includes fostering five individual champions, and facilitating three NCAA Regional qualifications along with 16 All-Big West selections.
One of her most notable accomplishments came in 2023, when Tiffany Le became the first Highlander to qualify for the NCAA Championship, finishing 19th nationally and earning the title of Big West Golfer of the Year.
In 2022, Ritchie’s role expanded as she took on the position of Director of Golf, overseeing both the men’s and women’s teams. She previously acted as the interim head coach for the men’s squad in 2015, leading them to their first Big West title since 2005 and producing two All-Big West selections. Since then, she has bolstered the men’s program’s performance significantly, with Hartej Grewal claiming the Big West Freshman of the Year award in 2025.
Ritchie’s Vision for Fresno State
Expressing her enthusiasm for the new role, Ritchie remarked, “I’m honored and grateful to Director of Athletics Garrett Klassy for the opportunity to lead the Fresno State Women’s Golf Team. My visit to campus left me with a strong connection; the dedication and passion for student-athlete success were evident throughout the athletics staff and the Fresno community. With the transition to the Pac-12 on the horizon, this is a pivotal time to elevate this program, nurture champions, and chase postseason opportunities.”
Recognition and Playing Career
Ritchie has been recognized for her coaching excellence, having been awarded LPGA Western Section Coach of the Year in 2015, 2016, and 2018, in addition to the LPGA National Coach of the Year for the 2015–16 season.
As a former athlete, Ritchie enjoyed a successful collegiate career at UAB and turned professional in 1999, competing on various tours including the Futures Tour (now Epson Tour), US Challenge Tour, West Coast Ladies Tour, and Canadian Women’s Tour.
