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Doug Harkema has joined Montcalm Community College’s coaching staff and will lead the golf team as the college works to bring back athletics after a 40-year hiatus. 

Harkema has been a varsity boys and girls golf coach for more than 20 years. He has also coached varsity girls and boys basketball at the high school level. He is looking forward to the challenge of starting a team from the beginning.  

“Golf is a passion and so is coaching,” Harkema said. “The job looks like a great opportunity for me to continue what I love. I also like challenges. Creating this team and program from the ground up will be an exciting experience. A challenge that I’m ready and looking forward to taking on.” 

He said he loves the game of golf and can’t wait to get out on the course. He also looks forward to recruiting players. 

“I look forward to being on the course with the team and helping them become their best selves,  not only as golfers, but as confident and capable leaders in their studies, jobs, and relationships,” he said. 

Harkema has worked with golfers at all levels and knows what it takes to help them be successful. He has also had some personal experience with recruiting. 

“My daughter played college golf at Calvin,” he said. “So, I have seen successful recruiting both as a coach and as a parent. I think this gives me a good blueprint to get off to a good start with families.” 

Harkema recently retired from teaching after 31 years. He taught physical education, health, and history. He said he likes to stay busy and is enjoying serving as a high school basketball referee this winter. 

Harkema attended Lansing Christian High School and Calvin College. He enjoys spending time at his family’s cottage on Lincoln Lake where he enjoys boating, fishing, swimming, and hanging out by the campfire. Music is something he has always enjoyed and he recently got back into records. He has played electric guitar in rock bands, and he loves to build and fix things.