Guelph, ON – With construction on a brand new Athletics Complex already well underway, the University of Guelph's Department of Athletics will have a whole new look come 2016. As it turns out, it is not just the facilities on campus that will have a new look come the New Year. After having served as Director of Athletics at the University of Guelph for the past 11-plus years, Tom Kendall announced on Thursday (September 10) that he will be retiring in December of 2015.
 
"The last 11 and a half years have been exceptional for the department and most enjoyable for me," Kendall said. "I am most satisfied that we have provided our students with exceptional new facilities and that our Gryphon brand has become very strong on campus and throughout the community. Our varsity teams have improved significantly and consistently challenge for conference and national championships. I am so proud of the Department of Athletics staff who have shown amazing commitment to our vision and our students are better off because of their dedication."
 
Kendall arrived at the University of Guelph in July of 2004 after having served as the Director of Athletics at St. Francis Xavier University in Antigonish, Nova Scotia. Prior to his administrative roles, Tom put together one of the most decorated coaching careers in CIS history. During his time as head coach of the Women's Basketball program at the University of Winnipeg, he won three straight National Championships (1993-1995) while also tying a North American collegiate record, previously held by John Wooden's UCLA Bruins Men's Basketball team in the early 1970's, by winning 88 consecutive games from October of 1992 to November of 1994.
 
Without a doubt, his coaching records will stand for many years to come. As will the upgraded facilities that he has spearheaded, both here at U of G as well as at St. Francis Xavier. But in the words of Brenda Whiteside, U of G's Associate Vice-President (Student Affairs), Tom's greatest impact has more to do with the students themselves than it does anything else, "I will miss Tom. He has been an extraordinary director. In his 11 years at Guelph, the department has grown significantly in terms of impact and reputation.  While many might speak to his impact on our facilities, I believe that his lasting legacy will be a culture that focuses on student growth and development."
 
Tom and his wife, Gail, plan on taking an extended vacation in Australia before beginning the next phase of their lives.

The University of Guelph begins its search for a new Director of Athletics to help lead one of the most diverse and high-performing athletic department portfolios in Canada.