Arizona Wildcats tennis legend Vicky Maes is stepping down following 17 seasons as head coach, the last one resulting in a winless Pac-12 record. Athletic director Dave Heeke announced the move in a news release Thursday afternoon. Assistant coach Andrew Veeder will act as coach while the UA conducts a national search for Maes' replacement.
"For 24 years, I have given my heart and soul to the tennis program and, in return, it has helped shape my values and who I am as a person," Maes said in a news release.
"As a coach, I have always attempted to instill those same values into our student-athletes. I am proud of all of the young women who have come through our program and will always root for the next generation of Wildcats. However, it is time for me to reassess and start a new chapter in my life."
Maes began her UA career as a player, and was named a four-time All-American, four-time All-Pac-10 honoree and three-time Pac-10 All-Academic honoree. The Pac-10 named her its Player of the Year in 1996.
Maes took over as coach in October 2001. She produced four All-Americans and seven all-conference selections. With Maes at the helm, Arizona appeared in eight NCAA Tournaments.
The Wildcats struggled recently. This year's team went just 9-16 overall and 0-10 in conference play. Arizona was just 2-8 in league play last season.
Maes said Arizona is "a special place."
"The opportunity to play and coach for this amazing institution has been one of the biggest honors of my life,β she said.
