The University of Delaware will say goodbye to coaching legend later this year.
UD men’s lacrosse coach Bob Schillinglaw says he’ll retire at the end of the 2017 season after 42 years as a head coach.
The 64-year-old Schillinglaw has been a fixture in Blue Hen athletics – guiding the men’s lacrosse program since taking the reigns in 1979. The upcoming season will be his 39th in Newark.
“Anyone who knows me knows that Delaware Lacrosse is my passion,” said Shillinglaw in a statement. “Representing the program, the University, and the alums is an honor, and besides my wife and three daughters, it is the most important thing in my life. While at this time this is the best decision for my family, I will continue to give 150 percent this season to provide this year's team and their families with the best experience and remain committed to working hard for the future of Delaware Lacrosse.”
Schillinglaw has coached more games than any lacrosse coach in NCAA history – 639 heading into this season. He’s won 327 games, 303 at UD, to rank 10th on the all-time NCAA wins list and 4th among active coaches.
He’s led the Blue Hens to six NCAA tournament appearances – including the NCAA Final Four in 2007 – and coached 19 All-American players, including John Grant – who was named national player of the year in 1999.
“Coach Shillinglaw’s contributions and commitment to this University, to Blue Hens Athletics, to the lacrosse program, and to the sport have been truly extraordinary,” said UD Athletic Director Chrissi Rawak in a statement. “His positive impact as a mentor to hundreds of highly successful young men over four decades can’t be overstated. He is Delaware Lacrosse and so many owe him a debt of gratitude for the legacy he has built and the first-class manner in which he guided this program."
Schillinglaw’s final season begins Saturday when UD hosts Bucknell.
