Toledo, Ohio – Former University of Illinois standout Grace Park has been hired as an assistant coach for the University of Toledo women's golf program, head coach Jenny Coluccio announced today. Park was an All-Big Ten First-Team selection for the Fighting Illini as a senior in the 2017-18 campaign and set school records for best stroke averages in a season (72.16) and career (74.59).

"We are thrilled to announce Grace as the part of the Rocket family," Coluccio said. "Grace brings a wealth of playing experience to the program. She also has a strong and growing knowledge of the game and passion for teaching and coaching. I'm excited to have her complete our staff and continue to build on our successful season last year."

"I am very excited to be a part of the Rockets' family," said Park, who is currently Level 2 in her PGA Certification. "It truly is a dream come true, and I can't thank Coach Jenny enough for this opportunity. I look forward to assisting Coach Jenny and the team, while continuing to build on the successes of the program." 

Park holds Illinois' school record for best 36-hole score (three-under 141) and is tied for the second-best 54-hole total (six-under 207). She also helped the Illini to NCAA Regional appearances in 2017 and 2018 as well as a second-place tie at the 2018 Big Ten Championships.

Park tied for eighth place at the 2018 Big Ten tourney as part of a strong finish to her senior season. She finished under par in her final five collegiate tournaments, highlighted by an individual title at the Lady Buckeye Invitational.

Park, who was born in South Korea but grew up in San Jose, Calif., graduated with her bachelor's degree in advertising from Illinois in 2018 and was a three-time Academic All-Big Ten selection.

Following graduation, Park has served as the boys' and girls' golf coach at Cupertino (Calif.) High School as well as the assistant professional at Moffett Field Golf Club in Mountain View, Calif.
 
Coluccio said that former Rocket graduate assistant and player Sathika Ruenreong will continue to pursue a professional golf career and work for a finance company in Toledo after earning her MBA in finance.

"Sathika has been a wonderful asset both as a player and coach for the Rockets!," Coluccio said. "She will be greatly missed and we wish her the best of luck in the future."