Questing for greatness, Coach Quitlong has journeyed from swinging a golf club at the age of three to coaching a “championship-caliber” golf team. He has dedicated his career to sharing his passion and demonstrating that golf is not only a sport but also a way of life. As he continues striving toward new heights in his career, he serves as a role model, sharing his passion, philosophies, and values with his players to support their athletic and personal growth.
Coach Quitlong’s successful career has included partnerships with Mizuno, working as the golf pro at the Washington Athletic Club, and coaching high school golf teams. He previously coached at Lincoln High School until an opening at Seattle Prep became available. He was easily persuaded by two of his players, Roger Savage and John O’Donnell, to join the Prep community. Having attended St. George, Coach Quitlong was already familiar with Seattle Prep and eager to “get back to my Catholic roots.”
“I love the interactions with the players and seeing them improve from point A to point B,” Coach Quitlong stated. Coach Quitlong emphasizes the importance of teamwork and unity, which is exemplified in the team motto: “When the girls win, we win. When the boys win, we all win.”
Coach Quitlong described his goal for the team: “Always seeing the players improve and reach their full potential, while bringing hard work to the team.” He proudly recalled how, in his first year of coaching, the team claimed the Metro League title. “It helps validate our success as a team and the philosophy we have behind our mindset.”
Despite focusing on athletic success, Coach Quitlong and Assistant Coach Morris’s central mission is to provide mentorship and guidance to players on and off the golf course. “Throughout the season, I try to bring in motivational speakers to find the common denominator between life and sports to motivate the team,” Coach Quitlong explained.
“He’s a mentor that I’ve looked up to for a long time… and has helped me grow as a player and person,” Prep golfer Frank Dixion ’26 said.
When reflecting on the most rewarding part of his career, Coach Quitlong said, “It’s hard to choose because I haven’t reached my limit… it’s still going.” If there is one piece of advice he would share with others pursuing their passions, he said, “It’s a long grind. Don’t ever give up… there are always setbacks, but you have to learn from them to succeed.”
“I am in love with my experience at Prep… it’s like a family,” Coach Quitlong said. He has served as an inspirational leader for the Prep golf team and beyond. His experiences and virtues shape him into a role model for all his players. With his mentorship, the Seattle Prep golf team has continued to make Metros and will continue striving toward excellence. “If there is one word to describe Prep, it would be ‘champions.’”
