Gary Henderson Letter

It has been an honor and a distinct privilege to represent the University of Kentucky as head baseball coach. It has been a source of pride to compete in the SEC for 17 years, including the last 13 at Kentucky, eight as head coach and five as an assistant coach. We’ve just completed five consecutive 30+ win seasons, for the first time in Kentucky Baseball history, and we’ve competed in two NCAA regionals. That said, it is 100% my decision to resign at this time, based in part because the results don’t meet my expectations.

Having the opportunity to coach at this level doesn’t come without sacrifices. First and foremost, I want to express my love and appreciation to my family, Vicki, Alex and Ty. Additionally, I have been blessed to be a part of so many great young men’s lives, and want to thank our players and my staff for their efforts and commitment during our time at Kentucky. Second, I wish to express heartfelt gratitude to John Cohen, for believing in me, and Keith Vorhoff for his unending loyalty over nine years. Additionally, I want to offer my sincere appreciation to Mitch Bamhart, who afforded me the opportunity to fulfill a 30-year dream of being a head coach at this level. Mitch’s leadership, counsel, support, passion and care cannot be overstated. Along the journey I’ve been fortunate to cross paths with so many great individuals who have supported me and our program throughout, from Rob Mullens to Marc Hill; Jason Cummins to Michael Stone and all the Athletics Department support personnel. Neil Price has been the consummate professional, and more importantly a friend to me, and there’s nobody better in college baseball broadcasting. The local media, who have covered our program, have done so in a professional and fair approach that I value and respect. Our Sports Turf department is second to none, and I want to thank Marcus, Tommy, Gerry, Dave, Josh, Marcus and Donnie, along with so many others, who have sacrificed themselves, to ensure we have a first-class facility in which to compete. Finally, I want to thank the Lexington community, our loyal season ticket holders and all those who have treated me and my family in a first-class manner.

Coaching in the SEC is not a job, it’s a lifestyle. All aspects of the job, from recruiting to player development, are all-consuming and require a 24/7/365 commitment. After 30 years in coaching, I have decided it is time for me to step away for the time being. I will forever cherish my time at the University of Kentucky and will continue to be a supporter of this great University, our athletics program and specifically UK Baseball.

– Gary Henderson