Bates College is proud to announce the appointment of Ian Gould as Director of Women's Golf, effective July 14, 2025.
The Portland Press Herald Golf Coach of the Year joins the Bobcats following a remarkable run as head coach of the Gardiner High School golf team, where he led the Tigers to the 2024 Maine Class B State Championship — their first in 60 years.
"Ian brings a powerful blend of coaching acumen, championship experience, and a values-driven approach that aligns beautifully with the mission of Bates Athletics," said Interim Director of Athletics Will Rothermel. "His leadership helped create a transformative moment for his Gardiner team, and we are confident he will have a similar impact with our student-athletes on and off the course."
In addition to team success, Gould played a pivotal role in the development of individual players, including Varsity Maine Boys Golfer of the Year, Jack Quinn, who won both the Class B State and New England Interscholastic Golf Championships.
"I'm honored and excited to join the Bates community," said Gould. "Bates is a place where excellence, inclusion, and integrity are woven into everything. I'm eager to help our student-athletes grow as players and people, and to build a program that reflects the values of this incredible institution."
A lifelong Mainer and a University of Southern Maine graduate, Gould has also dedicated much of his career to social work, mental health, and youth mentorship. His holistic coaching philosophy emphasizes resilience, growth, and confidence — qualities that mirror Bates' commitment to student development.