Rob Beam has resigned as head coach of the Oakland University volleyball program after 15 seasons, according to a press release that came out Friday afternoon. 

Beam said in the release that he wanted to pursue other opportunities and spend more time with his family.

“While it has been one of the great joys of my life to be the head volleyball coach at Oakland University, I have decided to step away from the program to pursue other opportunities both in and out of volleyball, as well as dedicate more time to be with my family,” Beam said. “I will remember fondly the student-athletes, coaches, families, staff members, and fans from my 16 years as a Golden Grizzly. Oakland University is a special place and I wish everyone here the very best as they pursue a bright future.”

Beam was beloved by his players for the family-like culture he instilled. Star senior Linday Wightman said back in October that she loved his positivity. 

“It felt like a family,” she said. “The coaches, especially Rob [Beam] cares about every single one of us for who we are as a person, not just as a volleyball player. And that stuck out to me because I feel like that’s really something that doesn’t come along very often.”

Junior setter Annabelle Tomei had similar sentiments about Beam’s culture in October as well.

“It was a family environment,” Tomei said. “They learned about me before I even came here, and took the time to get to know me,” “Then I went and they offered.”

Beam took over the volleyball program in 2007 and led Oakland to its first-ever Horizon League Championship in 2014. The Golden Grizzlies earned the league’s automatic bid to the NCAA tournament, the second appearance in program history, falling to Kentucky in Lexington, Kentucky.

During his time at Oakland, Beam recorded an overall record of 222-207 [.517] and 137-107 [.561] in conference play. Under Beam, the Golden Grizzlies finished fourth or better in the conference standings nine times. 

Athletic Director Steve Waterfield thanked Beam for his services.

“I appreciate Rob’s service and contributions to the athletics department and campus community the past 15 seasons,” Waterfield said. “Rob’s focus on academic, athletic, and personal development benefited numerous student-athletes during their time at Oakland University and helped position them for future successes. I wish Rob and his family well and hope he has much success in the opportunities he pursues.”

The search for Beam’s replacement will start immediately. In the meantime, Associate Coach Amber Hildebrandt will serve as Interim Head Coach.