Ben Johnson is a Northern Michigan University alumnus and former four-year member of NMU’s golf team who has risen through the coaching ranks to become head coach of both the men’s and women’s golf programs.
He first joined the NMU golf staff in August 2023, taking the role of assistant coach. In that position, Johnson worked primarily with the women’s team, helping guide them to a standout season: the women’s squad captured its fifth tournament win in program history, earned two second-place team finishes, and saw one of its players, Maya Hunter, place in the top-20 at the NCAA Tournament. On the men’s side, players such as Alyssa Yaggie and Russel Sprecher earned All-GLIAC recognition under his watch.
Beyond his roles on the coaching staff, Johnson also held key leadership and operational responsibilities at NMU: he is the general manager of the NMU Golf Course, where he oversees not only instruction and player development across youth and adult levels, but also grounds maintenance and facility management. Before returning to NMU, his experience included high school coaching, including leading the varsity golf team at Marquette Senior High School, along with involvement in junior hockey coaching in the Marquette area.
In September 2024, Johnson was promoted to head coach of the NMU men’s and women’s golf programs. In announcing his promotion, NMU Athletic Director Rick Comley emphasized Johnson’s experience as an assistant, his relationship with student-athletes, and his role running the NMU golf course as key assets. Johnson, for his part, expressed that he was honored by the opportunity and excited to lead both teams as they seek further success.
