March 14, 2007

Duquesne University head women's basketball coach Dan Durkin has informed Director of Athletics Greg Amodio of his decision to resign effective immediately.

"It is with great regret that I am stepping down as head coach of women's basketball at Duquesne after 14 years," said Durkin. "I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Holy Ghost Fathers, the faculty and staff as well as the student-athletes and coaches that I had the opportunity to work with over the years. My daughters have grown up in the Palumbo Center and I'd publicly like to thank them for their support. At the same time, my family and I are looking forward to new challenges."

Durkin, who was named Duquesne's eighth women's head coach in the summer of 1993, completed his 14th season in February with a 176-217 record. Duquesne finished the 2006-07 season with a 7-20 record, including a 2-12 mark in Atlantic 10 play in failing to qualify for the conference's Championship.

"I want to thank Dan for his loyal service and dedication to the Duquesne community," said Amodio. "We appreciate what he has done during his tenure and wish him and his family well."

Amodio added that a search for Durkin's successor will begin immediately.

"We will begin an aggressive and comprehensive search as we plan to secure the best possible person for the position," said Amodio. "Please note that our full attention will be focused on the hire and there will be no further comment until the search is concluded."