Ryan Steps Down As Falcon Volleyball Coach
April 20, 2005

SEATTLE (Apr. 20) – Kellie Ryan, who guided Seattle Pacific University to its first two NCAA tournament berths, has announced her resignation as head coach of women's volleyball.

Tom Box, athletic director, accepted the resignation and said he was grateful for Ryan’s efforts on behalf of the program. Box added that the search for a new head coach has already begun.

"This was a difficult decision because while we accomplished a great deal in my five seasons, I believe even better days lie ahead," said Ryan. "Still, I feel that it’s time to go, and I will explore other opportunities, both inside and outside the sport.

"I wish the team all the best,” she added. "Seattle Pacific will always be a special place to me."

Said Box: "I appreciate Kellie’s hard work during her five seasons. She is a Falcon alumna with deep roots at SPU. We wish her the best."

In Ryan’s first season, the Falcons won a record 20 consecutive matches and finished 24-6, reaching the NCAA Division II playoffs for the first time. They returned to the tournament in 2001. Last season SPU was 15-11 and took fourth in the Great Northwest Athletic Conference. Her overall record was 83-51, including 56-34 in conference play.

Ryan was an assistant to JoAnn Atwell-Scrivner from 1994-95 and later at Syracuse before returning to succeed Atwell-Scrivner as head coach.

An Auburn High School graduate, Ryan played for Seattle Pacific from 1988-91 earning all-conference honors as a senior. She remains the record-holder for career service aces and single match assists.

Box said assistant coach Chris Johnson will coordinate team activities until a new coach is selected. Ten of 12 players are expected to return next fall, including five starters.