Up Close With Assistant Coach Debby Murphy

Q&A with Debby Murphy 

1.       Why did you decide to be the coach assistant coach at Seton Hall?

Throughout my career, I have thought about coaching but I never had the chance to pursue it. Coach Doell gave me a great opportunity of continuing with my current position as well as assisting with the team.

2.       Tell us a little bit about your history with Coach Doell.

Sara attended my junior camp as a 10 year old in Rochester, New York where we both grew up. I then began teaching Sara as she played top level junior golf and high school golf. As Sara excelled with her game and went on to play at Penn State, I transitioned to coach and mentor through her collegiate career. On all levels, we have always been friends so it has been a huge pleasure to be working together.

3.       What do you feel that you were able to help the team with the most this fall?

As the head coach, Coach Doell has the huge role of being the organizer, teacher and guidance counselor. I think I was able to be an ally as we joined energy to facilitate what each player needed to work on to improve their golf swing and overall games.

4.       What was your favorite thing about the fall season?

Because my position was part time, I was afraid that I wouldn't be able to commit enough time to feel like I was a part of the team. I am thrilled that I have had the chance to be able to get to know each player and feel totally accepted. The girls have been great!

5.       How long have you been playing golf and how did you get started in the game?

I started to play golf when I was 17 years old. My boyfriend played and I started to play with his family. I had played softball, basketball and field hockey in high school but after I graduated I totally chased the golf bug.

6.       What are you most proud of in your career as a golf professional?

I am most proud of the feedback I have received from my students over the years. They recognize the fact that I care about them as people and not only am I interested in helping them to get better but I want them to have fun and enjoy golf, free of frustration

7.       In relation to your position as Director of Instruction at Trump National, what do you enjoy the most?

My students are a wide range of abilities, ages and personalities. I really enjoy the opportunity to be able to teach and interact with them.

8.       Outside of golf, what do you do in your free time?

As the girls always ask me, "Are you a health nut?!?"....Yes, a big one! I enjoy running, the gym and working on my own golf game.