Rosemary Fri

Rosemary was born in Whittier, California, on May 24, 1933, to Lawrence and Emma (Farmer) Fri. She graduated from UCLA in 1955 and moved to Greeley in 1959 to pursue her master's degree at Colorado State College, now the University of Northern Colorado.

Rosemary was appointed as a faculty member in the Department of Physical Education in 1961. In addition, she also served as Director of Women’s Athletics at UNC where she pioneered the development and success of the women’s athletic program and participation opportunities for female student-athletes. Under her leadership, the UNC Bears became one of the most successful women’s athletic programs throughout the Inter-mountain Region. She mentored many women who went on to become leaders in athletics, coaching and education. She made time for all who came to her for help and guidance and always gave more than expected.

Rosemary began teaching tennis in 1955 and created the men’s and women’s tennis teams at UNC in 1963. She coached both teams for over 45 years and led her teams to multiple championships. Rosemary was also the first volleyball coach at UNC. Not only did Coach Fri break through glass ceilings, but she also empowered those around her to succeed.

In 1994, Rosemary was inducted into the first class of the UNC Athletic Hall of Fame. A two-time recipient of the Wilson Coach of the Year Award, she was named Sportswoman of Colorado Coach of the Year in 1992 and was inducted into the Colorado Tennis Hall of Fame in 2002. She was a member of the UNC women's professors group, The Trailblazers, an honor that established a female athletic scholarship in her name. In addition, her players received honors at every level, conference, regional and national, including individual and team recognition. Rosemary loved her time at UNC and the many colleagues and student-athletes she worked with. After retiring, she continued attending volleyball games and supporting the Bears everyway she could.

Rosemary had a strong village of friends who cared for her during her brief illness. She said everyone should be so fortunate to have such wonderful friends, although anyone who knew her feels equally blessed. She also wanted to thank Banner Hospice for their compassionate and competent medical staff that helped her until the end. Rosemary will be remembered for her enthusiasm, kindness, encouragement, care for others, and love for animals.

She is survived by her sister-in-law, Marilyn Fri, a nephew, Stephan Dimond, nieces Sandy Sims, Judy Whetsel, Sarah Morris, and Juanita Bolinger, and her village of close friends. She is preceded in death by her parents, siblings, and nephew, Greg Bolinger. Per her wishes, no service will be held. Memorial gifts in her honor can be made to the UNC Foundation Rosemary Fri Scholarship, 1620 Reservoir Road, Greeley, CO 80631 or Friends of a Woman’s Place, P O BOX 337751 Greeley CO 80633.

When you step on to the tennis court hear Coach Fri reminding you to: "Keep fighting“ and “Close, Close, Close.”

UNC Volleyball will be celebrating Coach Fri’s legacy before their game against Florida on Saturday August 31st at 6:00. You are welcome to come early for gathering of friends 5:00.