Phil Robertson, a former head coach of the Michigan Wolverines football team, has passed away at the age of 79. His family confirmed the news on Tuesday, marking the end of a significant chapter in Michigan’s football history.
A Storied Career
Robertson’s coaching journey began after his playing days as a linebacker at Findlay College. Before joining the Michigan Wolverines, he had stints at William & Mary, NC State, LSU, and Navy. He arrived in Ann Arbor at the invitation of legendary coach Bo Schembechler. Over his 35-year tenure with the Wolverines, Robertson held various crucial roles, including outside linebackers coach (1987–1994), offensive line coach (1995–1996), recruiting coordinator (1996–2002), and special teams coordinator (1997–2002)
A Legacy of Dedication
Robertson’s family described him as a man who cherished family above all else. His son, Rob, is a retired U.S. Navy Captain and Naval Academy graduate living in Hawaii. His daughter, Robin, earned degrees from both Michigan State and Michigan before serving as a Foreign Service Officer with USAID in Kyiv, Ukraine. Robertson’s greatest joy came from his grandchildren: Spencer Morrison, currently studying at American University; Catherine Martz, a freshman at the University of Michigan; Peyton Morrison, an accomplished swimmer and tennis player in Hawaii; and Caroline Martz, a volleyball co-captain and artist at New England Innovation Academy .(
Remembering a Michigan Man
While the University of Michigan has yet to release an official statement, the Wolverines community has rallied online to share memories and condolences for a coach who dedicated over three decades to their program .
Robertson’s passing marks the end of an era for Michigan football, and his contributions to the program will not be forgotten.