AUBURN, Ala. – David Johnson, a former professional player and all-conference standout at UCF, has joined the Auburn men’s golf program as an assistant coach, head coach Nick Clinard announced Thursday.
“I am incredibly thankful for the opportunity to join the Auburn family and be part of such a great program,” Johnson said. "It will be an honor to work alongside two of the best coaches in college golf and to take over the role from Coach Alexander, whose legacy will continue to impact our sport for the foreseeable future. Having the chance to coach the best players in college golf is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I believe my 20+ years of playing experience will bring a great dynamic to the program and assist me in building an authentic relationship with our student-athletes.”
Johnson replaces Buddy Alexander, who retired from collegiate coaching following the 2024-25 season.
As a college player, Johnson competed for Clinard at UCF from 2007-09 when he was a two-time All-Conference USA selection and the 2008 C-USA Newcomer of the Year.
“Extremely excited to welcome David to our family at Auburn,” Clinard said. “He and I have been friends for a long time, and he’s a fantastic person. He’s played high-level golf all over the world and will be a great addition to our team!”
Prior to UCF, Johnson played at Eastern Florida State College, where he won six tournaments en route to earning a pair of NJCAA All-America honors.
Outside of college, Johnson was named the 2008 FSGA Player of the Year and was the 2008 Florida Match Play Champion. He’s a former member of the Asian Tour and PGA Tour Latino America.
“My goal in this position is to not only support the players’ success on the course but also to help prepare them for their endeavors beyond it, in the classroom and in life,” Johnson said.
A native of Melbourne, Florida, Johnson is married to Kristy Davis. The couple has one daughter, Paisley, and is expecting a son, Danny, later this fall.