Jones resigns as Darton golf coach

ALBANY – Darton State College head golf coach Bill Jones III announced his resignation today after two season at the helm of the Cavalier program.

“This decision was not an easy one, but was made for personal reasons,” Jones said. “I’m moving to Atlanta to be closer to family and friends and move on in my personal life in a way I could not here in Albany.”

Jones, who also served the college as assistant director of housing and residence life, will leave the program in good hands. Golf director Dale Dover will serve as interim head coach until the position is filled.

“I certainly didn’t want him to leave,” Dover said. “He’s done very well with that role and we worked good together. But he has his personal reasons for this and I understand that.”

Jones said his experience at Darton was  good one.

“I am extremely grateful to President Sireno, Dr. Barnette, Athletic Director Mike Kiefer, and Coach Dale Dover for the opportunities they have provided me,” he said. “Darton State College and the Albany community will always be like a second home to me, and I will continue to be an avid supporter of the school, athletics and golf program. I will also miss the people of this great community, who have been extremely supportive of the school, our golf program and myself during my time here in Albany.”

Jones was a national champion as an athlete at Darton in 2007. He earned a BBA from Mercer before returning to Darton as assistant golf coach. He took over as head of the program in 2011.

Highlights of his career as head golf coach included recruitment of Joe Sakulpolphaisan, who became the No. 1 D-1 golfer in the NJCAA, two All Americans, two conference championships and his role in securing a new Mercedez Sprinter van for team travel.

He leaves the program at a good time, Dover said. Most the recruiting is already complete for the upcoming golf season.

“He’s done a great job with it,” Dover said. “I don’t think we could have found anybody better for this. He’s a Darton man and he’s more like a son to me than a coach.”