’Wick Tennis Coach Andrea Pontius Announces Retirement
ONEONTA, NY – Men's and women's tennis coach
Andy Pontius, after a head coaching career spanning 17 years at Hartwick, has announced her retirement, which will take effect May 31.
Pontius, the longest tenured and winningest coach in the history of both programs, cited her family as the main reason for her retirement.
"At the beginning of each season I tell my players their three primary responsibilities are family, academics, and tennis," said Pontius. "It's time I take that advice for myself. I would like to spend more time with each of my four children along with my six grandchildren - all of whom live at least four hours away. It will also be nice to be able to spend weekends with my husband."
Under Pontius' direction, the women's team made appearances in 10 Empire 8 Conference Tournaments and four New York State Tournaments. In her final women's season this past fall, she guided the Hawks to program record starts of 8-0 and 5-0 in the Empire 8 before the team earned a spot in the league playoffs. On the men's side, Pontius led 'Wick to eight conference tournaments. In 2004, she was named the Empire 8 Men's Tennis Coach of the Year for guiding the Hawks to a third-place finish.
"Andy's time at Hartwick has brought forth hundreds of scholar-athletes who were dedicated to their sport and their studies," said Hartwick Director of Athletics
Kim Fierke. "Andy has made a difference in their lives and the lives of those she has worked with. I will personally miss her patience, understanding, and positive approach. We wish her the best as she moves into new experiences and thank her for her time and dedication to Hartwick and her scholar-athletes."
After graduating from St. Lawrence University, Pontius worked as an English teacher for five years before moving to Oneonta in 1982 and served as an admissions counselor at Hartwick. She was the head coach of the Oneonta High School tennis team for two years before being hired by former athletic director and Hartwick Hall of Famer Ken Kutler to lead the College's tennis teams in 1999.
"I have absolutely loved this job," Pontius added. "Tennis is a passion of mine. Coaching at the college level provides the unique opportunity to play a part in the growth and development of players both on and off the court. Former players and parents remain in touch and I look forward to this continued relationship."