Barry Mackay (1980) - University of Michigan Hall of Honor

Barry Mackay

Induction:
1980

The term "pioneer" can best be used to describe tennis great Barry MacKay when speaking about his career at the University of Michigan. MacKay, who played at U-M from 1955-57, had the distinct honor of being named the first NCAA All-American in the 115-year history of the program. He also captured a number of individual Big Ten Conference titles -- two in singles (1956-57) and three in doubles with Dick Potter (1955-57). But it was during a hot summer day in June of 1957 when MacKay left his everlasting mark on Michigan tennis, claiming the NCAA singles title to help the Wolverines clinch their first and only national team championship.

MacKay's 6-4, 3-6, 6-2, 3-6, 6-3 victory over Texas Sammy Giammalva gave U-M the outright NCAA championship, as the Maize and Blue edged out Tulane by a 10-9 margin in the team standings. MacKay was crowned the NCAA singles champion, and he teamed with Potter for a runner-up finish in the doubles championship.

Michigan ended the 1957 season with a perfect 12-0 record and claimed its third straight conference title. With his win over Giammalva, MacKay became the first Big Ten player to claim the NCAA singles title.

After his collegiate career came to a close, MacKay went on to have a successful amateur and professional career. He helped lead the United States to the Davis Cup title in 1958, and he teamed with Giammalva for a runner-up finish at the U.S. Open that same year. After earning a No. 1 national ranking in 1960, MacKay enjoyed a three-year stint on the pro tour from 1961-63.

MacKay's success and knowledge of the game led him to other avenues within the tennis industry. He was regarded as one of the most respected tournament directors and television analysts in the sport, and MacKay attributes much of his success to the lessons he learned during his experience in Ann Arbor.

Mackay passed away June 15, 2012.