May 11, 2009

EASTON, Pa. - Lafayette softball coach Jeanine Gunther has decided to resign on her own accord to pursue other professional opportunities, Director of Athletics Bruce McCutcheon announced on Monday, May 11.

"This news is surprising to everyone, myself included," McCutcheon said. "Jeanine is definitely leaving the Lafayette softball program better than she found it in all aspects and we're grateful for all of her hard work. We are proud of the many accomplishments the program has achieved under her leadership and wish her well in the future."

Gunther, the 2006 Patriot League Coach of the Year, capped her fourth season as head coach by guiding Lafayette to its second-straight appearance in the Patriot League Championship series. Prior to her arrival, the Leopards had never advanced to the title game.

"I've always known that I wanted to move back South and spend my life there, and I feel this is the right time for me to pursue that," Gunther said. "I've really enjoyed building the Lafayette program over the last four years. The hardest part of this was telling the players. I want to thank the current players and alumni for making my time at Lafayette so rewarding and for bringing me success as a coach."

The Leopards rose to prominence in the Patriot League under Gunther's direction. She led Lafayette to 20 victories and a 10-10 record in league play in her first season as coach, recorded a 21-25 record in her second season, matching the then-school win record and proceeded to break the school record with a 27-24 mark in 2008.

In 2008, the Leopards placed a school-record six on the All-Patriot League Team. Since Gunther took over the helm in 2006, her players earned 15 All-Patriot League selections and 22 Academic Honor Roll nods. She finishes her career at Lafayette with an overall record of 85-106.

A national search has begun for her replacement. The Leopards will return the bulk of their roster in 2010, including 2009 Patriot League Player of the Year Christina Giambrone.