Mike Phillips, who has worked in the Emory University athletic and physical education departments for 35 years, including head golf coach since 1983, has announced that he will retire following the conclusion of the Eagles' 2011 spring season.

The only varsity golf coach in school history, he has guided the program to eight consecutive and a total of 15 appearances in the NCAA Championships.  The team finished in the top 10 at the national championships four consecutive years (1997-2000), placing fifth at nationals in 1997, 10th in 1998, sixth in 1999, and 10th in 2000.  His 2004 squad came through with a fifth-place effort at the NCAAs and was followed by top-10 showings in 2005 (8^th) and 2006 (9^th).  He has seen nine of his players earn 13 All-America berths including three-time honoree Mike Lebow (2004-05-06) and two-time awardees Lee Palms (1990, 1991) and Timothy Hamm (2004, 2005). 

“Even though making this decision was difficult, I am confident that the timing is right,” said Phillips.  Emory has been such a special place and I am thankful to have had the opportunity to learn from and work with the late Dr. Williams Clyde Partin, who hired me, and other supervisors including Bill Fox and Gerald Lowery.  I admire my co-workers who have demonstrated a passion and commitment to the excellence of Emory’s students and athletes.  Time certainly does fly by and I will cherish the many memories that so many have helped me make.”

Phillips has directed the Eagles to 12 University Athletic Association titles since the school joined the league in 1986-97, most recently in 2008.  The Eagles won a conference-record six consecutive UAA championships from 1995-2000.  Phillips has been voted UAA "Coach of the Year" on nine occasions.  Heading into this year’s league championships (Mar. 11-12), 13 of his players capture UAA medalist honors including current junior Ryan Dagerman, who claimed that distinction in 2010.

“Mike Phillips’ commitment to the athletics program, the students at Emory and the University for such an extended period of time is just not seen in this day and age,” said Emory Athletics Director Tim Downes.  “Our selection by Golf Digest in 2005 for having the best collegiate golf program for academics in the country (Divisions I, II and III) speaks volumes for how Mike built the Emory program and the values that he has helped foster department-wide.  His ability to connect our unique history to our current success cannot be replaced. He has set the bar high and it’s up to the rest of us to carry on his great work.”

Phillips came to Emory in 1976 as the first full-time intramural director.  During his tenure at Emory, he also served as athletic facilities director and as an instructor in the physical education department.   He enjoyed a six-year stint an assistant men’s basketball coach, two years under Lloyd Winston (1990-91 and 1991-92) and four under Pete Manuel (1992-93 through 1995-96).


Emory Head Cross Country/Track & Field Coach John Curtin

“Mike Phillips is the last of guys who have done it all here at Emory.  Most now know him as the golf coach but Mike has worn a half a dozen different hats in the athletics department over the years.  From directing intramurals and the WPEC when it first opened, to assistant basketball coach in the 90’s, you name it and Mike has done it.  Though a very competitive guy, Mike has always understood what Division III athletics is supposed to be about and always found a way to keep things in perspective and fun.   I’ll miss Mike for his infectious laugh, unsolicited golf tips and allowing me to beat him on Twain’s shuffleboard nights.”

Emory Head Baseball Coach Mike Twardoski

“Mike is a great supporter of all sports. He could be seen at most basketball games where he was good at letting the referees know if they didn't make the right "Emory" call.  Mike was always trying to get our coaches together off of our fields or courts. He would set up shuffle board tournaments or golf tournaments to help establish chemistry amongst the troops. He loved Emory and it will always be a big part of his life.”

Associate Athletics Director/SWA Joyce Jaleel

“It has been a pleasure to work alongside Mike over the years.  His competiveness and dedication to Emory has enhanced the experiences of his team members, students, faculty and staff.  Mike has served the athletics and recreation department in many capacities including facility director and intramural coordinator, a tribute to his leadership.  Hosting three NCAA Golf Championships was an honor for the university and Mike played a key role in making those a success as well as fun events to work.  Mike’s impact on Emory will be long-lasting and we thank him for his 35 years of service and wish all the best in his retirement.”


Associate Professor and Former Emory Men’s Tennis Coach Don Schroer

“Mike has been a steady performer in several venues within Athletics and Recreation as well as Health and Physical Education.  His commitment and service to Emory is unsurpassed and he will be remembered for his unselfish dedication to A & R and HPE.  As a colleague and confidant I cherish his loyalty, his good-natured humor and his friendship.  He will be missed.”