Phil Rogers Retires as Head Women's Tennis Coach

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July 8, 2005

CHARLOTTESVILLE – University of Virginia head women’s tennis coach Phil Rogers announced his retirement from that position Friday (July 8). Rogers has led the Cavalier women’s tennis program for the past 23 years and was the longest tenured women’s tennis coach in the Atlantic Coast Conference.

“Phil Rogers has been a valuable member of the Department of Athletics and University staffs for over two decades,” said Director of Athletics Craig Littlepage. “His student-athletes have always been among our top performers academically, and have been great representatives of the University. Likewise, Phil has been a great representative and close colleague.”

Rogers has been the head coach of the Virginia women’s tennis program since 1983 and compiled a 260-233 record in his 23-year tenure. His 260 career wins rank second in ACC history. His teams made seven trips to the NCAA Tournament, including reaching the second round in 1996 and 2003. Virginia had six players and four doubles teams compete in the NCAA Individual Championships during the Rogers’ era.

“I appreciate the opportunity that the University of Virginia has given me and especially enjoyed being able to work for such a fine person as Craig Littlepage,” said Rogers. “My players, past and present, have been a special part of my life over the past 23 years and it has truly been a privilege to coach them. I wish the program great success in the future, as I am looking forward to being a fan. The opportunity to start a second career is exciting for me at this time.”

Rogers, a 1971 graduate of Virginia, was a professional coach before taking over the women’s tennis program at his alma mater. From 1979 to 1981, he coached Martina Navratilova as she climbed to No. 1 in the world rankings.