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For the first time since the Reagan administration, the Utes men's tennis team will have a new coach.
Utah athletics announced Friday morning that F.D. Robbins, who presided over the program since 1987, will be stepping aside to spend more time with his family. In his place, Roeland Brateanu will assume the reins after serving as Robbins' assistant since 2008.
Robbins leaves the program with a 364-345 career record as head coach, leading the Utes to five NCAA Tournament berths between 1987 and 1997. Utah won four conference titles, including the 2008 Mountain West title.
Although the Utes struggled at times in the last three seasons in the Pac-12, the program won a first-round match in each of the Pac-12 tournaments under Robbins.
"I will never forget my time here and will forever cherish my experiences and friendships," Robbins said in a school press release.
Robbins was also a standout player for the Utes, earning All-American honors in 1969 and 1970.
Brateanu, who played for Robbins from 2002 to 2004, has been critical in recruiting and developing singles players for the Utes. He's a certified strength coach with experience coaching the Guatemalan Fed Cup team.
"Roeland has earned a reputation as a fine coach and recruiter during his time as F.D.'s assistant," athletic director Chris Hill said in the release. "We expect a smooth transition and are confident that the team and the tennis community will rally around Roeland."
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