Stephen McClain will take over head coaching duties for the Wright City girls golf team this fall after working his first year as the boys’ coach.

“I had such a good experience coaching the guys golf team and I felt the need to step up,” McClain said. 

McClain will replace Shannon Wells. While Wells will no longer be the official person in charge, it is expected that he will have some involvement this fall. 

“He’s not completely stepping away and he’s going to be helping out here and there,” McClain said. 

While his spring coaching experience gave him a foundation, McClain plans to take a different approach with the girls team. 

With the boys squad, he emphasized strong performance both on the course and in the classroom, while also spending significant time helping athletes develop the mental toughness needed for competition.

However, he said he will shift that coaching philosophy with the girls team. 

“The girls team is more self sufficient and a lot of the mindset management doesn’t need to be done with the girls,” he said. “It’s going to be more about learning the fundamentals of golf.” 

He said his coaching style will center on helping players develop strong basic techniques and then helping them progress throughout the season, regardless of experience level. 

He acknowledged that team members will be at varying stages in their golf development, but said the focus will remain on growth and helping them take the next step. 

“It’s going to be making sure we’re competing well and fixing small quirks,” McClain said. 

McClain’s goals also extend well beyond the upcoming 2025 season.

“I want them to build the skills that they are going to have their entire lives,” McClain said.”I want them to be able to continue a sport they enjoy past high school.” 

Last year, Wright City had an all-state medalist in Morgan Nute as she placed third in the Class 2 state tournament.