CAPEL RESIGNS AS MEN'S BASKETBALL COACH; NATIONAL SEARCH TO BEGIN

After seven years as coach of Old Dominion University's men's basketball team, Jeff Capel announced his resignation Monday.

"In the best interest of myself and my family, I am regretfully resigning from Old Dominion, but do so knowing that I am leaving the program in good shape for the future," said Capel.

"I have enjoyed the years as head coach of this program and want to express my appreciation to the University. I am proud of the student-athletes that have played for me and it has been most gratifying to see them grow into fine young men. People are what make a program and I have made some great and lasting friendships with many people in the Hampton Roads community.

"We enjoyed great successes during my tenure, including not only getting to the NCAA and NIT tournaments, but advancing through those tournaments as well. I will continue to support Old Dominion and wish everyone here the best of luck," Capel said.

Capel posted a 122-98 record during his seven-year tenure with the Monarchs, which included CAA titles in 1995 and 1997, and advancement to the 1999 conference championship game. In his first season, Old Dominion won the CAA crown and advanced to the second round of the NCAA tournament, following a triple overtime victory over Villanova. In 1998-99, the Monarchs tied the school record for most victories with a 25-8 record and advanced to the second round of the NIT tournament. Capel captured his 200th career victory on Feb. 21, with a victory against George Mason. His career mark stands at 201-162 through 12 seasons, including previous championships and NCAA appearances at Fayetteville State and North Carolina A&T. This year's Monarch squad completed the season with a 13-18 record following a loss in the semifinals of the CAA tournament.

Old Dominion athletic director Jim Jarrett said a national search for a replacement would begin immediately.

"I am most appreciative of the support and leadership that Jeff has provided our men's basketball program at Old Dominion," said Jarrett. "I have the utmost respect for Jeff as a person. He has been a fine role model for our student-athletes and had significant success over the past seven years. I speak for the University community in wishing Jeff and his family all the best."