Southern Arkansas University Director of Athletics Steve Browning has announced that Julio Pacheco has resigned as head women’s basketball coach at Southern Arkansas for personal reasons. Pacheco’s resignation is effective immediately and comes at the conclusion of his third season on the sidelines at SAU.
“We want to thank Julio and his entire family for their commitment to our women’s basketball program over the last three years,” remarked Browning. “His passion for the game rejuvenated not only the program, but our fan base. We want to wish him all the best in his future endeavors as he turns his focus to his family.”
In just his first season as head coach, Pacheco was named the Great American Conference Women’s Basketball Coach of the Year after he led the Lady Muleriders to 19 wins and an appearance in that year’s GAC Tournament Semifinal game. The 19 wins that season set a program record in the NCAA Division II era for wins, and the semifinal appearance came as a result of the program’s first postseason win since 2007. Additionally, Pacheco coached three All-GAC performers and one Newcomer of the Year with two of the three all-conference players being named to the first-team.
“It has been a privilege to coach the Lady Mulerider basketball team for the past three years, and I want to express my deep appreciation for Coach Browning and Dr. Berry for allowing me this opportunity,” noted Pacheco. “I’d also like to personally thank my team, coaching staff, as well as the SAU community for the support and dedication during our time here. At this time, this just feels like the right decision to make for my family and myself.”
A nation-wide search for Southern Arkansas’ next head women’s basketball coach will begin immediately. Those interested in applying are asked to contact the Human Resources department at SAU (870) 235-4008.
Tagged with: DII Great American Conference SAU
