CHICAGO, Ill. -- North Park University Athletics has announced the hiring of Ryan Stefko as its Head Men's and Women's Golf Coach.

Stefko joins the Vikings after serving as an assistant coach at Northern Illinois University, where he worked with both programs on recruiting, operations, and player development. He played a key role in a record-setting fall season that featured the lowest fall team scoring average in program history, and multiple conference award winners.

"Ryan Stefko is an outstanding addition to North Park Athletics," said John Born, North Park's Director of Athletics. "His coaching experience at Northern Illinois and Menlo College has prepared him well to lead our program, and his enthusiasm for the game and dedication to mentoring student-athletes align perfectly with our mission. We look forward to the impact he will have on our golf program and campus community."

Prior to Northern Illinois, Stefko spent three seasons at Menlo College, helping guide the men's and women's teams to tournament titles, conference honors, and a national championship appearance. He oversaw recruiting, practice planning, and competitive strategy while mentoring student-athletes in all aspects of performance.

"I am honored and energized to step into the role of Head Golf Coach at North Park University," said Stefko. "Becoming a head coach has long been a personal and professional goal, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to lead this program into its next chapter. Over the past four years coaching at the collegiate level, I've developed a deep appreciation for building competitive teams grounded in strong culture. My experiences as an assistant coach, combined with my graduate studies in Sport Management at the University of Florida and the guidance of incredible mentors along the way, have prepared me for this moment.

Stefko also brings experience at the high school and developmental levels, along with a strong background in camps and clinics, where he has worked with players ranging from beginners to elite golfers. He's led the charge as an instructor or director at numerous camp programs, including Stanford University Golf Camp, Ron Sagar Golf Camp, and Nike Junior Golf Camps.

A former collegiate athlete, Stefko competed in golf and football at Allegheny College. He earned his bachelor's degree from Marquette University and a master's degree in sport management from the University of Florida.

Stefko continued: "From my first conversations with John Born and the North Park staff, it was clear that this is a community where people genuinely support one another and work together toward shared success. Those values, along with North Park's commitment to being Christian, city-centered, and intercultural—closely align with the culture I am committed to building within our program.

North Park Golf has tremendous potential. I believe that through a focus on respect, accountability, and daily improvement, we can build a program defined by sustained success both on and off the course. I'm excited to get to work elevating the standard of North Park Golf."

Stefko will begin his role immediately, leading the Vikings into the 2026–27 season.