First, a world-class golf course was built. Now, the Washington State Cougars have hired a widely-successful golfer to lead their women's program.

Kelli Kamimura, the former Sedro-Woolley High Star who's been an assistant at Pepperdine since 2004, was hired by WSU on Tuesday afternoon.

She replaces Walt Williams, who stays on as the men's coach.

"I am pleased to welcome Kelli Kamimura to Washington State University," Sterk said. "Kelli’s passion and knowledge of the game, her vast experience as a player and coach, and her ties to the Northwest will be a great fit for WSU and the women’s golf program."

While at Pepperdine, Kamimura helped lead the Wave to six consecutive West Coast Conference Championships (2004-09) and four top-10 finishes at the NCAA Championships, including a third-place finish in 2006. Kamimura’s 2008 squad set an NCAA record for lowest three-round team score, shooting 41-under-par at the Las Vegas Collegiate Showdown.

Before serving at Pepperdine, she was part of the staff at her alma mater – the University of Washington (2002-03). She played golf for the Huskies from 1999-2002, and was on the all-Pacific 10 Conference team all four years. Her four wins still stands as a career victories mark at the UW.