MITCHELL, SD — Brian Eliason has been appointed as the new head coach for the Mitchell School District girls’ golf team, succeeding Jeff Meyerink, who is now the head golf coach at Dakota Wesleyan University. Eliason, who takes over a team with a strong record of recent success, is eager to build on the foundation established by Meyerink.
“Jeff did an outstanding job of developing the girls’ golf program into one of the most respected in South Dakota,” Eliason said. “The team has placed 2nd, 1st, and 2nd at state in the past three seasons, so we have big shoes to fill. However, I believe our players are ready to put in the work necessary to continue their success.”
The team returns four letterwinners this season: Maddie Childs (Jr), Ava Eliason (Sr), Mia Larson (So), and Anna Eliason (So). “While we’re a relatively young team, our players have the experience and skill to compete for another state championship,” Eliason added. “Our focus will be on preparation, course management, and execution.” Ronae Klein will continue her role as the team’s assistant coach.
Although Eliason is new to coaching, he brings a wealth of experience in both golf and leadership. A graduate of the University of Wisconsin Law School in 2002, Eliason earned NCAA Division I letterwinner honors, was a 3-time Academic All-Big Ten selection, and was the Most Improved Player as a member of the University of Wisconsin-Madison Men’s Golf Team from 1996 to 1999.
Eliason also had an accomplished high school career, earning four varsity letters, four academic all-state selections, and two individual conference championships. He was a two-time all-state golfer and claimed victory in over 20 events during his career. Notable achievements include winning the 1996 Golf Foundation of Wisconsin Junior Championship and qualifying for the 1995 United States Junior Amateur Championship. In recognition of his accomplishments, Eliason was recently inducted into the Northland Pines High School Athletic Hall of Fame in Eagle River, WI.
Outside of coaching, Eliason is a real estate broker at Janklow Eliason Real Estate. He resides in Mitchell with his wife, Mary (McCardle) Eliason, and their daughters, Ava and Anna.
Girl golfers in 7th through 12th grade are encouraged to attend the pre-season information meeting that will be held in the high school cafeteria at 7:00pm on Tuesday, March 18. For further information, please contact: Cory Aadland, Activities Director, Mitchell School District.