Nov. 24, 2004

BEAUMONT - Lamar University volleyball coach Fiona Simmons submitted her letter of resignation, the university announced Wednesday.

"I appreciate all the hard work Fiona and her staff provided the Lamar volleyball program," Lamar Director of Athletics Billy Tubbs said. "She is a quality person and I wish her well in her future endeavors."

Tubbs said the search for Simmons' successor would begin immediately. He expects to have a coach in place sometime in January so they will have time to work with the team during the spring season and get started on recruiting.

"I am very proud of my players and staff for all their hard work and dedication, and I will miss them greatly," said Simmons. "I know the foundation has been set for a very successful future of Lamar volleyball and I wish everyone the best."

Lamar finished the 2004 season with a 9-23 record. Simmons, who posted a 45-51 record in three years, took over the Cardinals program in 2002, guiding Lamar to a 26-7 record and a second place Southland Conference finish. However, the program hasn't recovered from graduating four all-conference players from that team.