For Immediate Release: June 23, 2000
Contact: Derek Smolik, UT Pan American SID

John Garcia Resigns as UT Pan American Men’s Golf Coach

EDINBURG – John Garcia, who has served as the head men’s golf coach for the University of Texas-Pan American since 1994, announced on Friday his resignation from the post to devote more time to his family and business interests.

A native of South Texas, Garcia is also former Bronc player.  In his time at the helm of the Broncs, Garcia has produced several players of All-Conference caliber.  Most recently Manuel Inman and Luis Arechiga were named to the Sunbelt All-Conference First Team during the 1997-98 season.  That same year the Broncs finished second in the conference as a team.  Other players during Garcia’s tenure that earned All-Conference honors include Steven Bazan (1994), Culley Howard (1995-96), and Inigio Del Val (1997).

“I enjoyed the opportunity to coach here for the last seven years,” said Garcia.  “Unfortunately the time demands were too much for my family and business interests.  I will continue to support the program in the future and I encourage the business community to continue to support the program as they did in the past.”

UTPA Athletic Director William Weidner said that a national search for a new head men’s golf coach will begin immediately.

“We appreciate the outstanding contributions that John Garcia has made to our men’s golf program, the Athletic Department and the University of Texas-Pan American during his seven year tenure as our head men’s golf coach,” said Weidner.  “John’s efforts have laid a strong foundation for our men’s golf team in which future successes can be built upon.  He will always remain a very special part of Bronc Athletics.  We wish him and his family all the best.”