Tuesday, February 26, 2008

Valparaiso Athletics Director Mark LaBarbera announced today that Crusader head volleyball coach Carin Avery has signed a new four-year contract.

“We are thrilled that Coach Avery will continue to lead our volleyball program,” said LaBarbera.  “She is one of the finest volleyball coaches in the country, and it is exciting to know we’ll have her as part of the Valpo athletics family for at least the next four years.”

Over her six years at the helm of the Crusader program, Avery has tallied a 147-55 record.  The winningest coach in Valpo volleyball history, she has guided the Crusaders to six consecutive 20-win seasons, five consecutive conference championship appearances and three NCAA Tournament berths.

“I have truly enjoyed my experience at Valpo over the past six years,” said Avery.  “I’ve been blessed to work with a great athletics administration, and we have always had the support of the university administration, especially President Harre and Vice-President Gillispie.  We have built a great program here, but with the move to the Horizon League this past year, we still have a lot to accomplish.  We want to win regular season championships, tournament championships, and not only go to the NCAA Tournament, but also win matches there.  I am happy that I will continue to have the opportunity to lead this program towards those goals."