Aug. 10, 2007
SANTA CLARA, Calif. - George Husack stepped down as head coach of the men's tennis team after spending five years as head coach and 12 years with the men's tennis program at Santa Clara University. Husack departs after leading the Broncos to one of their most successful seasons in program history. Overall, he posted a 68-63 record in five seasons as head coach, while leading SCU to a number of wins over nationally ranked opponents.
"I am truly grateful for the many opportunities given to me here at Santa Clara University," said Husack. "The relationships established with players, coaches, administrators, faculty, staff, alumni, parents, and fans have meant so much to me as they impacted my life both personally and professionally."
"George has been a key member of the Santa Clara family over the past 12 years as a coach, administrator and a mentor to a number of student-athletes," said Director of Athletics and Recreation Dan Coonan. "He brought tremendous enthusiasm and passion to his job every day and we want to thank him for his efforts for the Santa Clara community. His hard work and dedication helped bring the program into the national spotlight. He will be missed and we wish him well in his future endeavors."
After seven seasons as an assistant coach, the San Mateo native became the program's fourth head coach in its 20-year history in July, 2002. In November, 2003, Husack assumed additional duties as the Director of the Bronco men's and women's tennis programs through the 2004 season.
In 2006-07, Husack's squad posted a program-best 20-8 record and earned the second seed at the West Coast Conference Championships, while spending 14 weeks in the national polls. The SCU men's tennis team achieved a number of notable firsts last season, as they defeated UC Irvine and Cal Poly on the road for the first time, while also beating a Pac-10 team on the road for the first time in school history. The team also put together a nine-match winning streak, good for second in program history, while getting as high as No. 59 in the national rankings. Six players, Jan Macek, Bobby Rasmussen, Blane Shields, Brian Brogan, Robert Gallman and Jay Wong earned All-WCC honors for their play.
In 2005-06, Husack led the Broncos to a fourth-place finish in the WCC and an 8-3 record at home. Under Husack's tutelage, Jan Macek was named first-team All-WCC in his final season, while Brian Brogan and Tommy Hicks were honorable mention selections. In doubles Kevin McQuaid and Blane Shields earned All-WCC Second Team honors, and Macek and Bobby Rasmussen were All-WCC Honorable Mention honorees.
Husack managed the Silver Racquet Club, the program's booster club, and he launched the Nike Tennis Camp in 1999 at the Santa Clara University Tennis Center and has co-directed the program since its inception. He also began USTA Team Tennis in 1998, a program that has enhanced awareness and demand for tennis among recreational players on campus. He also started the Bronco Pro-Am, an annual event that combines current players and SCU tennis supporters to raise funds for the program.
Husack played an integral role in the implementation of the Santa Clara Pathways to Success Program on the Mission Campus in 2003. The SCPSP is an after-school program designed to expose low-income students to the college environment. The session included six weeks of tennis instruction and development, academic tutoring and personal mentoring for the Peter Burnett Academy, a local middle school.
The Bay Area native played No. 1 singles and doubles at Canada College in 1988 before continuing his career at San Diego State through 1991. After receiving his bachelor's degree in finance, Husack earned his MBA in marketing from the University of San Francisco in 1995. Husack also served as the athletic department's director of marketing and corporate partnerships in 2001 and 2002. He was appointed to the position following two seasons as the manager of athletic marketing and promotions. Husack and the External Services unit were honored by the University in 2002 for outstanding work in marketing and promotions, community outreach and media relations.
Husack served on the SCU Staff Assembly Council in 1999 and 2000 and was awarded the Staff Advisor of the Year in 2001 for leading the efforts of the Ruff Riders, the official student booster club of Santa Clara University Athletics. The group now boasts more than 3,500 members and has become the largest student organization on campus.
More Thoughts From George Husack
"I especially want to thank former head coach Sean Burns and assistant athletic director Marlene Bjornsrud for bringing me on board twelve seasons ago, as well as the three athletic directors, Carroll Williams, Cheryl Levick and Dan Coonan,and Bronco Athletic Department staff for their tremendous support of the program over the years."
"A lot has taken place with the tennis program, athletic department and university over this time period and I'm happy to have shared this experience with so many student-athletes and Bronco supporters including my wife, parents, siblings and friends. Santa Clara University became an extension of my own family and a great place to call home."
"It was a very tough decision for me to step down from my position, especially after such an exciting season. I know, however, that a great opportunity awaits the next coach to lead this program beyond last year's historic run. There is a solid nucleus of players and support from the Bronco faithful that will continue the upward trend. I will keep a watchful eye on the team's progress and enjoy cheering them on as a Heckler on the Hill."
Erich Chen '04
"When I think of George, the first word that comes to mind is: Dedication. He has worked tirelessly, and was an integral part of bringing Santa Clara University Tennis to a national stage. While the assistant coach, he focused on recruiting, kept schedules/logistics in check, and the team on time. After Sean left, George stepped up, and displayed his great player development and motivational skills. He has been an amazing coach, leader, and friend. The program and I will miss him."
Taylor Bedilion '05
"I have personally been able to see George Husack develop into a great coach. I played under him initially, and then was able to work with him at Santa Clara. Through my development in the Bronco program, I saw him become the mentor and leader he is today. One distinct memory I have of him, was how he helped us at the NCAA Regionals at Saint Mary's. His great leadership there helped us all have success at the regionals."
Blane Shields '08
"George is a great person all around. He taught all of his player's life lessons, and was able to motivate us to be as successful as possible. He is a model citizen and a personal mentor, and he was able to help me develop from a less experienced freshman to a well-rounded senior. He was a mentor for us both on and off the court, and will be missed greatly."
Kevin McQuaid '08
"George was a motivator and a go-getter. He did a lot for the community, kept the alumni connections strong and hosted many Pro-Am's, so we could get more experience. He is a great coach, but a better friend. We all could go to George, and he would always be willing to listen to us. This past year especially, he made it fun to play tennis. We all had good attitudes, great energy, and the drive to do well. He really brought out our most competitive nature, and allowed us to thrive in the program. I wish him success in the future."
Sean Burns, former SCU Head Coach
"George had a deep passion for the game of tennis and Santa Clara University. He loved being part of this community, and was passionate about teaching here. He wanted to contribute in several capacities. From on the court to his time in the marketing department; he always had Santa Clara at the forefront of his mind and intentions. After I left I knew I had left the program in great hands, and that proved to be true through the success he has the last five years. This past year, the team was made up of George's recruits, and they had a great season. They all played under George's style of tennis and were extremely successful."