ROCKLIN, Calif. — Jessup Athletics shares the deepest sorrow in announcing the passing of beloved former Men's Golf Head Coach and Coach Emeritus, Tim Hovancsek. Coach Hovancsek, a respected leader and mentor, led the Warriors for six seasons (2012-2018), leaving an indelible mark on the program and the lives of countless student-athletes.
Jessup University President Dr. John Jackson shared his deep respect for the former coach, stating, "Tim was a beautiful soul who cared deeply for his golfers and the Jessup community. We miss his smile and encouragement already!"
During his tenure, Coach Hovancsek established the Jessup Men's Golf program as a national contender. His leadership led the Warriors to secure four tournament titles and achieve 18 top-three finishes in 27 tournaments. His 2016-17 team achieved the highest national rankings in Jessup history, culminating in an 8th-place finish at the NAIA National Championship. Furthermore, the program earned the Academic All-American team status for three consecutive years under his guidance.
He played a vital role in establishing a Christ-centered culture and laying the foundation for future student-athletes to experience grace and mercy.
Coach Hovancsek's impact can be seen in the success of his former players and the subsequent leadership of the program:
- Pro Tour Success: He coached two-time All-American and multiple individual champion Johnnie Greco. After graduating, Greco turned professional in 2017 and currently competes on the Korn Ferry Tour and PGA TOUR Americas.
- Professional Alumni: Oliver Csanyi was a key player from 2017-2021, earning NAIA and GSAC Scholar-Athlete honors before going on to play professional golf on the Pro Golf Tour, where he recorded several top-25 finishes.
- The Continued Legacy: Upon Coach Hovancsek's retirement in 2018, his former student-athlete Matt Robinson took over the reins of the program as Head Coach. Robinson was noted for continuing the program's success, leading the men's team to a runner-up finish at the GSAC Championship in his inaugural season. Robinson was later succeeded by other coaches.
A PGA Master Professional, Coach Hovancsek's passion for coaching was fueled by his own experience of two "near-death" events, which he used to point his teams toward "God's goodness, grace, and mercy." Even after his retirement, he remained a part of the Warrior family, assisting with key annual golf events and fundraisers. As recent as this Fall, Hovancsek would be seen at Arizona local competitions supporting the Warriors and continuing his legacy, impacting the Warrior community.
Jessup Athletics extends its heartfelt condolences to the Hovancsek family and all who were positively impacted by Coach H's life and ministry.
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Jessup University is a member of the National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA) Division II and the PacWest Conference. For additional information regarding Jessup Athletics, visit www.jessupathletics.com; visit www.jessup.edu for more information on Jessup University. Follow Jessup Athletics on social media: Jessup University Athletics (Facebook) and @JessupAthletics (Instagram & X).