Longtime Minot State University head women’s basketball coach Sheila Green Gerding announced Monday she is stepping down from her position with the university to spend more time with family.
The announcement ends Green Gerding’s 22-year career at Minot State. She is the school’s all-time leader in wins with 360.
“Twenty five years ago being a college coach was all I thought about,” Green Gerding said. “Fifteen years ago I didn’t think I wanted kids because of how time consuming college coaching was. Today I am ready to move in a different direction because I want to be there for my family.”
Minot State set nearly every team and individual record during her career. She became the MSU career wins leader during the 2002-03 season and reach 350 wins last season. The 2010-11 team set a school record for wins in a season with 22. In all, she had 15 winnings seasons, reaching 20 wins five times, and double figures in wins in all but one season. She finishes her career at 360-283.
During her 22 years as head coach, she mentored 11 All-Americans, six All-Region players and 31 All-Conference players, including Carly Boag, Kendra Meyer and Jenn Sundahl who were all named either league Player of the Year, Most Valuable Player or Most Valuable Senior.
“I want to thank my husband (David) most of all for his continued support and loyalty that has allowed me to do what I love,” said Green Gerding. “Secondly, to all the players and coaches who have worked so hard to make this program a success. We have so many great memories and success stories. And finally, to the community of Minot for your continued support.”
Under her direction, the Beavers qualified for the NAIA National Tournament six times, advancing to the NAIA Division II Quarterfinals twice, captured two NDCAC postseason championships, won one Dakota Athletic Conference tournament championship and one NDCAC regular season title.
Since moving to the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference, MSU was 59-83 overall and 1-5 in NSIC Tournament play, advancing to the quarterfinals in 2013-14.
“I certainly respect Sheila’s decision to step away from coaching to spend more time with her family. Coaching at this level comes with tremendous time commitments and stresses on family,” Minot State Director of Athletics Andy Carter said. “Sheila has been our head for 22 years and she has set a very high standard for future coaches to strive to reach. We are thankful for her service to the program, the Athletic Department and the University.”
Minot State has only had four head coaches in women’s basketball since starting the program in 1972. Carter said the university will begin a nationwide search for Green Gerding’s replacement and fifth head coach immediately.
Photo Courtesy Minot State Athletics
Tagged with: DII Minot State NSIC
