John Roberts

"I look forward to helping our student-athletes perform to the best of their abilities on the course, on the ice, and in the classroom."

Norwich University named John Roberts as the head coach of the men’s golf program, ushering in a new era of leadership for one of the Cadets’ fastest-growing teams. 

Roberts, who joined Norwich in 2025, brings a multifaceted background in athletics as both a coach and player, and his appointment marks an important step in the continued development of Cadet golf.

Roberts takes over a program that finished fourth at the 2025 Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) Championships. That season was highlighted by Second Team All-Conference selection Cooper Bertrand, a two-sport standout whose play elevated the Cadets’ presence within the conference. With Roberts now at the helm, the team looks to build on that momentum and continue strengthening its place among GNAC contenders.

Coach Highlights

• Named Norwich men’s golf head coach in 2025
• Former NCAA Division III goaltender at St. Norbert College
• Collegiate career began at Division I Northern Michigan University
• Assistant coach during Stevenson’s 2025 NCAA Hockey Tournament run
• Background in golf instruction, course management, and youth coaching
• Assistant men’s ice hockey coach and goaltending coach for men’s and women’s programs at Norwich

A Golf Foundation

A native of Lansdale, Pennsylvania, Roberts has long-standing ties to the game of golf. He first competed at Pinecrest Country Club, where he developed his skills as a player. Over the years, his involvement deepened into roles that blended technical knowledge with practical leadership. His experience includes youth instruction, course management, and groundskeeping at several Wisconsin-based clubs.

This blend of playing and instructional experience now informs his approach to coaching. Norwich’s student-athletes will benefit from his comprehensive understanding of the sport, both in terms of performance and the broader culture of golf.

A Dual Role in Norwich Athletics

Roberts’ appointment as head coach of men’s golf coincides with his role as an assistant coach for Norwich men’s ice hockey. He also serves as goaltending coach for both the men’s and women’s programs, offering Cadet athletes the benefit of his expertise across two varsity sports.

His ability to coach across programs reflects Norwich’s distinctive model of athletic development — one where student-athletes are guided by coaches who understand performance, discipline, and the balance of academics and athletics.

Collegiate and Coaching Background

Roberts’ own collegiate playing career underscores his experience in high-level competition. He began at Division I Northern Michigan University before transferring to St. Norbert College, where he served as a goaltender for three seasons.

Following his playing days, Roberts transitioned into coaching and quickly established himself as a talented and respected leader. Most recently, he was part of the Stevenson University men’s ice hockey coaching staff, working under current Norwich men’s hockey head coach and alumnus Dominick Dawes ’04. In 2025, Roberts helped guide the Mustangs to their first-ever NCAA Tournament berth, a milestone achievement for the program.

Building Cadet Golf

As head coach of men’s golf, Roberts inherits a team that is poised for growth. The Cadets have shown steady improvement in recent seasons, highlighted by strong individual performances and competitive finishes at GNAC events. His appointment represents a commitment to developing golf as a competitive program within Norwich’s athletic landscape.

With his background in instruction, management, and player development, Roberts brings a holistic approach that aligns with Norwich’s mission to educate and inspire leaders through athletics, academics, and service. His leadership is expected to continue raising the standard for Cadet golf while complementing his work with the university’s nationally recognized hockey programs.

Norwich’s Tradition of Coaching Excellence

The addition of John Roberts to the Norwich coaching staff is another chapter in the university’s long tradition of cultivating excellence across its athletic programs. His breadth of experience and commitment to student-athletes reflect the values that define Norwich athletics — discipline, resilience, and teamwork.

For Roberts, the opportunity to guide Cadet golfers carries both professional and personal significance. For Norwich, his appointment reinforces the institution’s dedication to providing its student-athletes with the highest level of coaching and mentorship.

As the Cadets take to the course, Roberts’ leadership will provide the structure, expertise, and vision needed to continue building a competitive and respected program.