St. Augustine Prep Coach Paul Rodio Announces Retirement After 50th Season

One last ride.

Longtime St. Augustine Prep basketball coach Paul Rodio, 73, will coach his 50th season with the Hermits in 2026-2027, and that will be his final season on the sideline.

The school announced in a social media post on Saturday that Rodio will be stepping down at the end of the upcoming season.

Navigating Health Challenges and the Search for a Donor

The decision comes at a time when Rodio is dealing with some health issues, including liver issues that have progressed, forcing him to apply for a liver transplant.

His family posted a letter explaining the situation, with the best option being to get a liver from a living donor.

He is currently on the national liver transplant waitlist.

This is not the first time he has dealt with health issues while on the sidelines for the Hermits.

"One Last Ride": Plans for the 2026-2027 Farewell Tour

This final season will be filled with countless celebrations, including reunion games for classes and assistants, an alumni game, a throwback game in the Hermits' previous home, Spina Gym, and more.

I have covered numerous games involving Coach Rodio, and he has brought a flair for the dramatics.  Rodio will often start the game wearing a tie, but depending on his team's play, that tie can be taken off midday through the first quarter of the game.

However, at the end of the game, he was always willing to discuss his team's performance, win or lose.

He has coached numerous players who went on to play college basketball, and many more who were appreciative of his role in their post-basketball lives.

You can follow the Rodio's final season with the Hermits on their social media channel.