A 1974 graduate of the University of Memphis, Larry Liles dedicated his life to coaching racquetball at the highest levels. From 1975 to 2003, he served as the head coach of the University of Memphis Racquetball team, leading them to an astonishing 17 National Men’s Championships and 12 National Women’s Championships. Under Liles’ guidance, 60 of his players became National Champions in singles or doubles.
Liles’ impact extended far beyond the collegiate ranks. He served as an assistant coach on the USRA National Team and the U.S. Olympic Festival Coach. For three years, he held the prestigious head coach role for the U.S. Olympic Racquetball team. Additionally, Liles was a dedicated member of the USRA Collegiate Council for 25 years, shaping the future of the sport.
His coaching process did not go unrecognized. Liles was named the USOC Development Coach of the Year and the USRA Collegiate Coach of the Year, cementing his status as one of the most accomplished coaches in the sport’s history.
As a player, Liles’ achievements were equally impressive. He won the Men’s 40+ World Championship in 1988, the Men’s National Double Championship in 1981 and 1991, the Men’s National Double Championship in 1981 and 1991, and the Tournament of Men’s Championship in 1988. His contributions to racquetball were further honored with inductions into the Racquetball Hall of Fame and the Memphis Amateur Sports Hall of Fame.
After his retirement, the USRA named the National Championship trophy the Larry Liles Championship, a fitting tribute to his legacy. Liles’ impact extended beyond the court as well. From 1975 to 2000, he served as the National Youth Sports Program Activities Director, teaching racquetball to inner-city kids, and later became the program’s Director from 2000 to 2004.
Liles’ dedication to the sport was also evident in his literary pursuits. He authored the book “Winning Racquetball,” published by McGraw-Hill in 1993, sharing his expertise and insights with aspiring players.
Off the court, Liles and his wife, Dotsy, have three adult children—Buddy, Josh, and Molly—and nine grandchildren. They are active members of the First Evangelical Church in Memphis.