Bill Simms Returns as Interim Head Coach

Chicago -- University of Chicago Director of Athletics Tom Weingartner announced today that Bill Simms, who coached tennis at Chicago from 1979-2000, will return to serve as interim head men's and women's tennis coach during the 2003 seasons.

Simms replaces Natalie Butler, who accepted a position on the staff at the NCAA after coaching the Maroons the previous two seasons.

Simms began his collegiate coaching career at Chicago in 1967 as head men's gymnastics coach. Three years later in 1970, Simms was named a full-time faculty member and joined the football staff as wide receivers coach. In 1975, the University discontinued varsity gymnastics, thus ending Simms' tenure as head coach of that sport. As a result, he shifted responsibilities and was named head diving coach and assistant men's and women's tennis coach. He served in that role for three years until taking over the reins of the women's tennis program in 1978. In 1979, Simms was elevated to head coach for both men's and women's tennis.

Simms has enjoyed an outstanding playing career in the amateur tennis ranks. In 1999, Simms was a member of the winning tandem in 60s-doubles at the Midwest Tennis Championships for the second straight year. Simms won a national title in 1987, taking top honors at the ATA 45-Doubles Championships in California. During the past decade, he has claimed numerous singles and doubles titles in the 50- and 55-divisions.