HAMILTON ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT FROM COACHING

TACOMA, Wash. – After 22 seasons, University of Puget Sound Head Softball Coach Robin Hamilton has announced her retirement from coaching. The winningest coach in Puget Sound history, Hamilton will remain with the university and continue her role as associate athletics director.

“Serving as the head softball coach at the University of Puget Sound for the past 22 years has been both a pleasure and privilege,” said Hamilton. “I am grateful to have shared so many great days on and off the field with the amazing women who have been part of our program.”

Taking over the Logger softball program in 1986, Hamilton compiled a record of 455-305-3. Under her guidance, Puget Sound had ten first-team All-Americans, eight NAIA National All-Tournament Players, and nearly 70 All-Conference student-athletes. Just as impressive, the Logger softball program has earned a 3.1 GPA or better for the past 22 years.

“For 22 years Robin has had a profound impact on the lives of many players in her role as coach, mentor, and role model,” said Director of Athletics Amy Hackett. “Not only did she amass an outstanding coaching career in terms of performance but she did so with the highest degree of integrity and concern for the welfare of the student-athletes.”

The decision to retire from coaching was made prior to the season. Hamilton wanted the 2008 season to be about the players so she decided to stay quiet regarding her intentions until after the season. She met with her team on Wednesday to inform them of her decision.

“I will forever cherish the memories and laughter our teams shared and I thank each of the players for their commitment and dedication to Logger Softball,” added Hamilton. “I have always said how fortunate I was to coach Logger softball, as our biggest fault was that our players tried too hard and cared too much.”

In addition to her work at Puget Sound, Hamilton was granted a five-month leave in 2000 to take a position with the Sydney Olympic Organising Committee as the Venue Press Manager for Softball.

Hamilton came to Puget Sound after a two-sport career at Idaho State University where she was a four-year starter in both softball and volleyball. As a collegian, she played four different positions during the course of her career and is the all-time single-season RBI leader at ISU with 29 in 1979.

“As an administrator, Robin has been an integral part of our success in Division III. Her increased presence can only further enhance the quality athletic program we enjoy at Puget Sound,” said Hackett.

“I am looking forward to the opportunity to expand my administrative responsibilities and take on new challenges to help the Puget Sound Logger athletic program,” concluded Hamilton.

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