Former Illinois golf star Luke Guthrie has been taking large steps in his career. After obtaining his PGA Tour card for the 2013 season, only one thing was missing — a caddy. And no one seemed more fit for the role than Illinois men’s golf assistant coach Zach Guthrie, who was not only Luke’s coach throughout college, but also his older brother. 

“There was always an unspoken feeling between us, that someday I would be his caddy if he turned pro,” Zach said, “but it wasn’t officially talked about until last summer.” Caddying for his brother won’t be something new to Zach by any means. Because of their five-year age difference, Zach has been present through a lot of Luke’s junior golf career. Zach caddied for Luke during a U.S. junior event as well as another pro event in which Luke competed as an amateur. Zach also caddied for his brother during six professional golf events this summer. 

Even though the brothers have always been close, Zach said they get along so well because they both understand the duality of their relationship. 

“We always have time to be brothers, like when we’re in a hotel room together, watching basketball or baseball, or even when we go out to dinner. But there’s a time when I am the coach and Luke is the player because, on the course, it’s all business,” he said.  

Zach said he will definitely miss the Illinois athletes that he helped coach for the past five years. 

“Recently, it has been harder to grasp that I’m leaving, especially since it’s official,” he said. “It’s sad, really sad, when people come up to me and say goodbye.” 

Not only will Guthrie miss his experiences at Illinois, but the team, especially head coach Mike Small, will miss his presence.

“Zach brought to the program an incredible work ethic as well as good organization, which has helped not only me, but the players over the years,” Small said.

Even though he is leaving behind the program, Zach said he could not be more excited to begin caddying for his brother. 

“I have the unique opportunity to help get my brother’s career get off to a good start,” Zach said. “Even though I’ll miss the guys, the choice wasn’t hard. I’m doing this to help my brother.”

With a whole new journey in store, the brothers will be preparing for various professional tournaments across the country next year. But Zach stressed that he plans to reside in the area to maintain a connection to his Illinois family. 

“I won’t be too far from all of the guys on the team that I’ve thoroughly enjoyed coaching over the past five years,” Zach said.

Claire can be reached at [email protected].