Auburn announces Eric Shore’s retirement
AUBURN, Ala (auburntigers.com) —Eric Shore, who has served as Auburn’s men’s tennis coach the last 26 seasons, is retiring announced Athletics Director Jay Jacobs. The winningest coach in the program’s history, Shore compiled a 359-293 record. He will assist with the men’s program until his replacement has been hired.
“After giving careful thought and consideration, I’ve decided to retire from coaching at Auburn,” Shore said. “I’ve been fortunate to work with a lot of great people. I want to thank all of the former players and assistant coaches for their contributions to the program. It’s been my privilege being their head coach. We did a lot of great things on and off the court over the years, and I’m proud of the many accomplishments.”
“I’d also like to thank Jay Jacobs, the entire Athletics Department, Auburn University, and the Auburn community for their support during the last 26 years. Auburn is a great place and I truly enjoyed my time here.”
Under Shore’s leadership, Auburn made 20 NCAA Tournament appearances, including five Top 15 finishes. His teams made three Sweet 16 appearances and two Elite Eight appearances.
“I appreciate and thank Eric for his long-time service to the Auburn men’s tennis program and Auburn Athletics,” Jacobs said. “He is Auburn men’s tennis. Eric built the foundation of the program and has provided outstanding leadership for countless men that have played for him during the last 26 years. He will always be a part of Auburn and we wish him nothing but the best in his retirement.”
During his tenure, Shore coached 20 All-America selections and 32 All-SEC honorees. In addition, 34 Tigers have participated in NCAA Singles and Doubles Championships since Shore came to Auburn.
The 2002 season was one of Auburn’s most successful as Shore led the doubles team of Andrew Colombo and Mark Kovacs to the NCAA title. The duo went on to earn the honor of ITA Doubles Team of the Year.
At the 2005 Wimbledon Championships, former Auburn great and Shore-coached Stephen Huss rewrote history, along with partner Wesley Moodie, by becoming the first qualifiers ever to capture the Gentlemen’s Doubles Title. Huss also became the first Auburn tennis player ever to win a Wimbledon title.
A native of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, Shore became the school’s all-time winningest coach Feb. 5, 2005, as he guided his squad to a victory over Samford for his 193th win. He captured his 300th win on March 16, 2012.
