Dr. Murray Rudisill, the head coach of Old Dominion University’s men’s golf team, announced on Apr. 15 that he will retire at the end of the 2026 season.
Rudisill’s decision marks the conclusion of a coaching career spanning over five decades at Old Dominion University. His long tenure and influence have shaped generations of student-athletes and left a significant impact on the university’s athletics program.
“In the fall of 1974, the athletic director at ODU, Dr. Jim Jarrett, offered me the job starting in the spring of 1975. No recruiting, no scholarships. Just have some tryouts and play a few matches. I was given a 25% reduction in my teaching assignments and a salary of $800,” Rudisill said. “I immediately said yes since golf had been such a big part of my life and it was really an answer to a prayer. As I close out this final year, it is with a lot of mixed emotions. Mentally and emotionally I still love this job and don’t want to leave, but physical requirements demand more than I can give.”
Rudisill has earned seven conference coach-of-the-year awards during his time at Old Dominion University (ODU). He led his teams to two conference championships as well as four state championships in Virginia in 1983, 1984, 1986, 1992, and 1993; CAA Championships came in both 2003 and 2007 with NCAA Regional appearances those years as well.
“Dr. Rudisill has literally poured his heart and soul into ODU golf for over half a century,” ODU Director of Athletics Dr. Wood Selig said. “There are a few in the history of college sport coaching who can match his overall impact and legacy in any sport… It has been an honor to work with such a man of integrity and character.”
Rudisill began his academic journey at NC State before earning advanced degrees from North Carolina (master’s) and Florida (doctorate), joining ODU’s faculty as professor in 1972 before taking over men’s golf three years later.
Seven golfers coached by Rudisill won individual conference titles; Alan Schulte captured back-to-back wins in mid-1980s while others like Geoff Harris received Rookie or Player-of-the-Year honors under his guidance.
“I have been so blessed to have so many great young men who have come through the program over these 51 years… What a blessing these friendships have been,” Rudisill said.
Six former players are members of ODU’s Sports Hall of Fame; McGovern and Daley played professionally on tour circuits.
“I have always been extremely ‘competitive’… Being a Christian… I have had to try to love these guys unconditionally even when they were playing poorly…” Rudisill said.
As he retires as Division I’s longest-tenured head coach nationally, Rudisill reflected: “Most coaches will be remembered by their wins and losses… These lasting relationships hopefully will be my legacy… Thanks be to God and to ODU for all these wonderful memories.”
