Historic Milestone for Pepperdine Women’s Golf Coach Laurie Gibbs
Pepperdine women’s golf head coach Laurie Gibbs has made history by surpassing 3,000 career wins. For over 30 years, Gibbs has led one of the most successful collegiate golf programs in the United States.
Gibbs took the reins as the program’s first full-time head coach in 1993. At that time, the team’s potential was untapped, relying on part-time coaching. With a clear vision, Gibbs built a strong foundation by raising funds for scholarships and gaining entry into prestigious tournaments. “It took about five years to build our program,” she noted. The support from the university and generous donors has been crucial for success on the course and in academics.
Under her guidance, the Waves have a remarkable 65% winning percentage (3,043 wins to 1,592 losses), securing 66 tournament victories and numerous runner-up finishes. The team’s rise to national prominence began when UCLA’s Hall of Fame Coach Jackie Steinmann invited Pepperdine to compete in a key tournament. Though they struggled initially, finishing near the bottom in those first tournaments, their progress has been impressive over the years.
In NCAA play, Pepperdine has made 14 championship appearances, finishing as national runner-up in 2003. They have consistently qualified for the postseason, boasting a 64% win rate in NCAA Regionals and a 60% mark at the Championships. Remarkably, the Waves have reached the NCAA Regionals for 26 consecutive seasons.
Gibbs ranks fourth among active Division I coaches for tournament wins, trailing only three other legendary figures in women’s golf. The program has also seen 33 All-American selections since 2000, alongside an impressive 100% graduation success rate for student-athletes.
This spring, the Waves have continued their winning ways, with two tournament victories and a recent runner-up finish. They are preparing for their next competition at the Betsy Rawls Longhorn Invitational, followed by the WCC Championships later in April.
Gibbs’ achievement reflects not only her dedication but also the hard work of her players and supporters. The story of Pepperdine women’s golf shows how perseverance and community backing can create excellence, both on the course and in academics.
For more about the Pepperdine women’s golf program and its continued success, you can follow them on social media @PepperdineWGOLF.
