Poll: How Successful Was Terry Don Phillips At Clemson?

Terry Don Phillips, who has served as the athletic director at Clemson University since 2002, announced Thursday that he will retire after his contract expires in 2013. 

Clemson President James Barker said a national search for Phillips' successor will begin this fall. 

Clemson is a better university because of Terry Don Phillips," Barker said.

"His integrity, dedication and business insights have made Clemson's athletics programs stronger financially, academically and competitively. Under his leadership, I believe Clemson has established a model athletics program -- one that is characterized by full compliance, success on the field of competition, and recognition that student-athletes are students first. I have asked Terry Don to continue as Athletic Director until we have his replacement."

Under Phillips, Clemson athletic teams garnered 57 top twenty-five finishes, 13 ACC championships and 77 winning seasons, while also becoming bowl eligible in football every season. 

"As I am now in the final year of my contract, I have decided to publicly announce my retirement plans, so that President Barker can have as much time and flexibility as is needed to conduct a search and ensure a smooth transition in leadership," Phillips said. "I'm very proud of what we have accomplished at Clemson, and I believe the future for the athletics program is bright."

We at Patch want to know your opinion: How do you think Terry Don Phillips' tenure at Clemson will be remembered?