University of Virginia basketball coach Tony Bennett checked off two major career milestones this spring after leading the Cavaliers to their first Final Four appearance in 35 years and their first-ever NCAA Championship title.
It was no surprise that Athletic Director Carla Williams and UVA President Jim Ryan decided to offer Bennett a hefty, well-deserved raise for his accomplishments.
But in an act of selflessness rarely witnessed in the high-profile athletic scene, Bennett humbly rejected the offer.
Instead, he requested that the money be redirected to provide his staff with additional compensation and to implement program improvements.
“I have more than I need,” said Bennett. “I’m blessed beyond what I deserve.”
Tony Bennett Credits His Wife
The coach credited his wife Laurel for the decision to reallocate the money.
“She’s always said, ‘Is there something we can do that can make a difference?'” said Bennett. “That’s been on her heart and mind, and we’ve talked about it a lot. We try to train our guys to be the best basketball players they can be, the school educates them, we try to teach them what it means to be a leader, and we try to pour the pillars into them. But what else can we do?”
As if turning down the substantial raise wasn’t enough, the couple also generously pledged $500,000 toward a career-development program designed for current and former players.
“There’s an incredible advantage in being a student-athlete here, but there are some disadvantages,” the coach continued. “You’re so consumed with your studies and then your workouts and your playing that you don’t always have the time to really pursue as many internships and career opportunities [as other students].”
