University of Tampa Mourns the Passing of Dr. Robert “Bob” Birrenkott

The University of Tampa community mourns the passing of Dr. Robert "Bob" Michael Birrenkott, a Hall of Famer, former athletic director, emeritus professor, and architect of modern Spartan Athletics, who passed away on April 5, 2026, surrounded by his family. He was 80.

Born November 21, 1945, in Lemmon, South Dakota, Bob's life was defined by service, leadership, and a deep love of sport. He was the youngest member of the United States Air Force Ground Observer Corps Air Defense Team before beginning an accomplished academic journey. A graduate of Black Hills State College, Bob earned his master's degree from Eastern New Mexico University and his doctorate from the University of Mississippi, where he also served as the radio voice of Ole Miss Rebels Baseball.

Dr. Birrenkott's impact on the University of Tampa was both foundational and transformative. He served as athletic director from 1976 to 1985, assuming leadership at a time when the University faced significant challenges, including no full-time coaches, limited scholarship resources, and inadequate athletic facilities. Through vision, persistence, and advocacy, Bob reshaped the department and laid the groundwork for decades of success.

He was instrumental in the University of Tampa's acceptance into the Sunshine State Conference in 1981, a pivotal moment in the growth and credibility of Spartan Athletics. During his tenure, Bob brought men's basketball back to campus and added, elevated, or funded numerous sports to varsity status and national prominence, including baseball, soccer, swimming, crew, volleyball, golf, and basketball.

A champion for facilities and infrastructure, Dr. Birrenkott led the effort to renovate Pepin/Rood Stadium and oversaw the athletic department's move into the Martinez Sports Center, key milestones that supported the University's long-term athletic ambitions.

Beyond administration, Bob remained a passionate educator. He founded and later directed the University's undergraduate Sports Management (Sports Administration) program, which today serves more than 500 majors and has produced generations of leaders throughout the sports industry. In recognition of his profound influence, he was inducted into both the University of Tampa Athletic Hall of Fame and the Sunshine State Conference Hall of Fame.

Bob's service extended well beyond campus. He served on the Board of Directors for the Boys & Girls Clubs, as President of the Tampa Sports Club, and as both a member and chairman of the City of Tampa Civil Service Board. He also served as Executive Director of the Tampa Bay Sports Foundation and was a licensed auctioneer who presided over countless charitable events. In South Tampa, particularly during the 1980s and 1990s, Bob was a constant presence as a youth coach—someone many grew up calling simply, "Coach."

While his professional accomplishments were many, Bob valued his family above all else. A blind-date tennis match with Regina Hudson of Tupelo, Mississippi, led to a marriage spanning more than 50 years. Together, they raised sons Rob and Brad, and Bob took special joy in his role as "Oso" to his four grandchildren. He loved being on the water, at the ballpark, and anywhere competition was taking place—especially while cheering on the ten-time national champion University of Tampa Spartans baseball program.

Dr. Birrenkott is survived by his wife, Regina; sons Rob (Amanda) and Brad (Kendall); grandchildren Bailey, Mackenzie, Hudson, and Bodie; and brother Pete (Julie) Birrenkott.

In honor of Bob's life and legacy, attendees at services celebrating his life are encouraged to wear baseball caps or Panama Jack–style hats, a fitting tribute to a man whose life was defined by sport, service, and genuine joy.