Gavilan College is in the market for a new head women
’s basketball coach since announcing Thursday that Mike Girardi,
who headed up the program this past season, will not be returning
in the fall.
Gavilan College is in the market for a new head women’s basketball coach since announcing Thursday that Mike Girardi, who headed up the program this past season, will not be returning in the fall.
Girardi has accepted a position as assistant coach for the men’s basketball team at California State University at Stanislaus.
“We’ll miss Mike, and his ability to lead this team,” said Ron Hannon, Gavilan College Director of Athletics, “but at the same time we’re happy for him. This is an excellent opportunity for Mike to advance his career by moving to the four-year level.”
Girardi submitted a letter of resignation which read, in part: “Today, I have accepted a coaching position at the university level. I firmly believe it is the right move for me at this stage in my professional career. I thank Ron Hannon and Gavilan College for the opportunity to direct the Gavilan College women’s basketball team.”
Under Girardi, the Lady Rams maintained a 3.56 team grade-point-average and an 11-11 overall record during the ’03-’04 season, including a No. 3 state ranking in team defense. That was with a roster of only six players and even five at times due to injury.
“I enjoyed leading a group of special student-athletes for whom I will always remember their committment to excellence in the classroom and on the basketball court,” Girardi said.
Hannon said that, during his time with the Rams, Girardi instilled the values of hard work, committment, and loyalty, leading his team to the best record in the Gavilan Rams women’s athletics program in 15 years. Girardi was hired at Gavilan in May, 2003.
The search for a new coach will begin immediately, and Hannon is confident there will be a new coach in place in time for the new season. The ideal candidate will have experience coaching at the college level, although high school coaching experience will be considered with other factors.
“We’re looking for someone who will be dedicated to the athletes, and to building the program with integrity,” Hannon said. “It’s a great opportunity for someone to continue last year’s momentum and bring the women’s basketball team up to the next level.”
