Russell Abbott

Russell Abbott, a member of the PGA of America, is in his 12th season with the Virginia Tech women’s golf program and was promoted to associate head coach in July 2025. Since joining the Hokies in 2014, Abbott has played an integral role in the rapid rise of the program alongside head coach Carol Robertson, helping guide Virginia Tech from its inaugural season to four NCAA Regional appearances and the program’s first NCAA Championship berth in 2021. Known for his technical expertise and player development skills, Abbott’s coaching has been instrumental in Virginia Tech’s success both on and off the course. He emphasizes performance analytics, swing technology, and individualized player instruction — using tools such as video analysis and launch monitors to refine his golfers’ mechanics and course management. Prior to his time in Blacksburg, Abbott served as first assistant golf professional at The Landings Club in Savannah, Georgia (2007–2014), one of the country’s premier private golf communities. There, he oversaw junior programs, club fitting, tournament operations, and instruction using advanced video and data systems. He also spent time as an assistant golf professional at Sea Palms Golf and Tennis Resort (2002–2005) and as the assistant men’s and women’s golf coach at Mercer University, his first role after earning his MBA in 2002. Abbott is also a talented player with a USGA index of +0.5 and multiple professional tournament victories in the Georgia PGA East Chapter, including top finishes at the 2013 Georgia East Chapter Championship and the Bridgestone Premier Invitational at Firestone Country Club. A native of Georgia, Abbott holds a bachelor’s degree in sports medicine from Valdosta State University (1999) and an MBA in finance from Mercer University (2002). He and his wife, Tiffany, live in Blacksburg with their two sons, Brice and Brandt.