Pulliza resigns as volleyball coach

Arkansas coach Robert Pulliza instructs players during a match against Ole Miss on Sunday, Oct. 18, 2015, at Barnhill Arena in Fayetteville.
Arkansas coach Robert Pulliza instructs players during a match against Ole Miss on Sunday, Oct. 18, 2015, at Barnhill Arena in Fayetteville.

— Robert Pulliza has resigned as Arkansas' volleyball coach amid allegations of intimidating and bullying players.

The resignation comes a week after the UA opened an investigation into the coach in response to an anonymous letter from "outraged" parents of players.

He denies these accusations but said in a statement that coaching involves making difficult decisions.

"Any accusation that I have threatened physical harm to any player or called players names like the demeaning terms that have been alleged is simply false," Pulliza said. "Many of the allegations made against me speak more to a style of coaching that might not be for everyone but is not uncommon in college athletics."

Arkansas athletics director Jeff Long said a national search for Pulliza's replacement will begin immediately, but associate head coach Carol Price-Torok will serve as the interim coach.

While some former players accuse him of using vulgar language — such as calling them "weak b*s" — and threats — such as telling a player she's lucky "I don't punch you out of the gym" — Pulliza said some have reached out to him.

"I am humbled by the outpouring of support I am receiving from current and former players and coaches who have stepped up, publicly and privately, to talk about the Robby that they know — the real me," Pulliza said. "Their support and encouragement mean more to me than they will ever know, and I am honored to call them my family."

In eight season at Arkansas, Pulliza was 122-124, including 67-87 in SEC play, and led the Razorbacks to two NCAA Tournament appearances.

Read Thursday's Arkansas Democrat-Gazette for full details.

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