July 1, 2008

Allendale, Mich. - Grand Valley State Director of Athletics Tim Selgo announced today that Lori Stinson has resigned her post of head women's golf coach effective July 31. Stinson, who became the Lakers' first-ever fulltime head women's golf coach in 1999, will persue other career opportunities in her hometown of Ft. Wayne, Indiana.

"Lori did a great job for us in establishing our women's golf program as one of the best in the country," said Selgo. "We appreciate everything she has done for us and wish her the very best in her new career. We will now commence a search to find the best leader possible to continue the great tradition that Lori has built here at Grand Valley State.

Stinson, who has twice been named the National Golf Coaches Association (NGCA) Division II Coach of the Year, led the Lakers to the NCAA Division II National Championships seven times in her nine years at the helm. In addition, Stinson guided GVSU to four GLIAC Championships and was named the GLIAC Women's Golf Coach of the Year four times.

"It is with mixed emotions and great appreciation that I leave the tremendous Grand Valley State family," said Stinson. "However, I have the opportunity to take a job that is closer to my family in Fort Wayne, Indiana."

Stinson added, "The young ladies that I have had the chance to coach, get to know and work with over the years have been such a joy. I will be taking with me many cherished memories and very funny moments!! The Grand Valley family has been so supportive of our team and mission. Most importantly I will miss everyone's friendship. I want to thank Tim Selgo, Lisa Sweany and all the Administration at Grand Valley State. The support that we have had over the years has been outstanding. This is such an exceptional place and it's because of the great people that work here. I feel extremely blessed to have been part of such a special program and will truly miss the wonderful people that have been part of the experience.

In 2005, Stinson led the Lakers to their highest finish as a team (second) in school history and helped Melissa Sneller become GVSU's first-ever NCAA individual golf national champion. GVSU most recently notched a third-place finish at the 2008 NCAA Championships in Houston, Texas.

Grand Valley State will return six-of-its-top-eight golfers for the 2008-09 campaign, including four that competed in the 2008 NCAA Championships.