Virginia men's tennis coach Brian Boland moving to role with USTA

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (AP) — Brian Boland, who has guided Virginia men's tennis to three national championships in the past four years, is leaving after this season for a position with the United States Tennis Association.

The school made the announcement Wednesday, saying the 10-time Atlantic Coast Conference coach of the year is leaving May 29.

"I believe it's the opportunity of a lifetime, and it's something that my wife and I, Becky, decided over a number of conversations that this was the best thing to do for our family at this point in time," said Boland, who will work in player development with the USTA in Florida.

At Virginia, Boland compiled a 436-57 (.884) record in 16 seasons. The Cavaliers also won 140 consecutive matches against ACC opponents, a decade-long streak that is the longest in conference history in any sport. His teams have featured three NCAA singles champions and three NCAA doubles champions.

Boland said one of his first acts after making the decision was reaching out to recruits to ask them to stick with their decision to attend Virginia. He also said after sharing his plans with his team, they were supportive and excited for what describes as the "next step in my career."

"We're going to turn this into a huge positive," he said of the remainder of the season. "We're going to do something special."

Boland said there are two main reasons for his departure: His parents have relocated to Florida, where his siblings live, and "It's time for my parents to be afforded the opportunity to spend time with their grandchildren, and get to know them."

"Secondly, it's time for a bigger challenge. I really believe I can help American tennis, and I intend to do that," Boland said, "and put every bit of energy and knowledge and experience and effort into the players that are trying to succeed at the highest level. ... There's going to be a massive challenge awaiting me ... and I intend to take it head on."

Virginia said a national search for Boland's successor is underway.