John R. Dufford, Jr.

Abstract

Brings Girls’ Tennis to Prominence.

Jack Dufford, English teacher, College Counselor, Dean of Boys, and Coach, dedicated his years at Pingry to inspiring excellence in both his students and players. He was an extraordinary teacher, outstanding coach, and a role model to the entire Pingry community. During his 38 years at Pingry he coached both football and tennis, but he is best remembered for the 23 years he dedicated to the women’s tennis team. Jack is warmly described by his players as an exceptional coach, whose ready praise and strong guidance inspired them as they approached the competitive years of college, to be responsible, respectable human beings. Jack began coaching women’s tennis in 1975 and ended the season with a 4-5 record. Six years later he led the team to a 13-0 season followed by eight years as Somerset County champions (1986 - 1988, 1990 - 1993, and 1995), Somerset County second place (1989, 1994, and 1996), the Prep A title in 1983, the Parochial B state title in 1991, and was named the Courier News Coach of the Year in 1991. He retired in 1997 with 242 wins to his team’s credit.