Howard University Director of Golf Sam Puryear has been named the 2025–2026 HBCU Coach of the Year by the Black College Golf Coaches Association and the Golf Coaches Association of America, further cementing the rise of Howard Golf as one of the nation’s premier HBCU programs. 

The national recognition comes after another phenomenal season for the Bison, highlighted by the women’s golf team capturing its first Northeast Conference (NEC) Championship in the program’s history, and the men’s golf team securing its third consecutive NEC title. Both teams advanced to NCAA Regional competition this month, continuing the program’s unprecedented momentum on the national stage. 

“This prestigious national honor reflects Coach Puryear’s dedicated leadership and the continued rise of Howard University Golf as a premier program in collegiate golf, within the HBCU community and beyond,” said Howard’s Vice President and Director of Athletics Kery Davis in a letter to the university community. 

Puryear helped transform Howard Golf into one of the most visible and respected HBCU golf programs in the country since the program’s relaunch six years ago. Under his leadership, Howard student-athletes have consistently excelled competitively and academically while elevating national awareness around opportunities for Black student-athletes in golf. 

The Bison also earned significant individual recognition from the Black College Golf Coaches Association. Rising seniors Francisco Perez and Mathis Perroni were named to the HBCU All-America Team, while rising senior Bear Huff earned honorable mention recognition. 

“The sustained excellence of the program, due in part to Puryear’s vision and the talented play of our student-athletes, has become a powerful example of what commitment, discipline, and investment in student-athlete success can produce,” Davis said. 

The success of Howard Golf has also become a national story beyond championships. With support from four-time NBA champion Stephen Curry, whose $6 million gift helped to establish the program in 2019, and growing corporate partnerships and visibility opportunities, the program has emerged as a model for expanding diversity and representation within the sport. 

“What Coach Puryear and our student-athletes have accomplished extend beyond championships and accolades,” Davis added. “They are helping transform the perceptions of HBCU golf while creating pathways and opportunities for future student-athletes to see themselves reflected in the sport.” 

As Howard Athletics continues one of the most successful stretches in department history with an astounding ten championships this academic year, the accomplishments remain a shining example of the university’s commitment to excellence in the classroom and in the field of competitive sports, proving that Howard can compete and lead on the biggest stages. 

Pictured Above: Howard University Director of Golf Sam Puryear shares a moment with actor Chris Tucker during the 2025 Bison at the Beach event, which brings together supporters, alumni, and partners to advance the future of Howard University Golf. 

Photos courtesy of Howard Athletics.