Beth Anders to Return for One More Season of Coaching at ODU
Legendary Old Dominion University field hockey coach Beth Anders, who announced her retirement from coaching earlier this week, will return for one more season of coaching at ODU, as announced today by athletic director Dr. C. Wood Selig and Anders.
"I have been very touched by all the calls and letters I have received from former and current players this week, as well as people throughout the field hockey world and the ODU community. I also appreciate the support I have received from President John Broderick and Dr. Selig, who have asked me to postpone my retirement. As a result, I have decided to remain at ODU for one more year and I look forward to coaching the 2012 team," says Anders.
Anders will step down as head coach at the conclusion of the 2012 campaign, which will mark her 30th year at the ODU field hockey helm. She will serve as a consultant for the field hockey program from January through June of 2013, and participate in the search for her successor.
"This is terrific news for all ODU field hockey alumni, our current field hockey student-athletes and all field hockey fans in general," says Selig.
"Having Beth return for one final season will provide a wonderful opportunity for all those associated with our field hockey program to enjoy one more year with one of the best head coaches to ever coach. I am most excited and pleased for our student-athletes, as I know they will appreciate this last chance with Coach Anders, and I expect they will make the most of it, starting today," adds Selig.
As the winningest coach in NCAA field hockey history, Anders has led ODU to an NCAA record nine national titles, while amassing 546 wins in her 29 year career. Her 2011 squad was ranked No. 1 in the nation for most of the season, won their 15th CAA title in 21 years and advanced to the NCAA "Final Four" for the 17th time, also an NCAA record. The 2012 squad will feature 14 returnees from the 22-3 team, including All American Kati Nearhouse and national rookie of the year Kelsey Smither.
Old Dominion University will host the NCAA Field Hockey National Championship semifinals and finals at the Powhatan Sports Complex on Nov. 16 and 18 of this year, and again in 2013.