Robert Allen "Buddy" Harston is the new golf coach at Lipscomb University.

Harston, a former member of the Bisons baseball team from 1970 to 1974 and an assistant baseball coach for the Bisons from 1974 to 1977, is looking forward to returning to his alma mater after more than 29 years as a golf professional.

"We have been gone from Nashville for 20 years now," said Harston. "We are excited to be back in Nashville, but we just as excited to be back at Lipscomb. Being the coach of the golf teams is a perfect fit right now.

"There is a great athletic tradition at Lipscomb especially in baseball, basketball and golf. People who go to Lipscomb love athletics. That is enough tradition right there."

Harston, 53, replaced Dr. Ralph Samples, who is retired in May after 39 years as the golf coach. Harston is responsible for both the men's and women's teams.

"We are so pleased and excited to welcome Buddy Harston back to Lipscomb University," said Potts. "Buddy is a man of great character and integrity and shares a strong commitment to the Christian mission of our institution.

"For almost 30 years, he has immersed himself in the game of golf as a competitor, teacher and student. His expertise and experience will enable us to build on the 39-year legacy left by Coach Ralph Samples."

Harston served as director of golf/head golf professional at Lexington Country Club from 1986 to December of 2005.

Prior to that position he was the assistant golf professional in Nashville at Belle Meade Country Club from 1984 to 1986.

He is also active on the PGA Senior Tour, having participated this year in the PGA Senior Open, PGA Senior Championship and the Senior British Open.

Harston has also spent time in the Florida serving as director of personnel for FAF, Inc., and as an assistant golf professional at The Deerwood Club in Jacksonville, Fla., and Costa Del Sol in Miami.