by Greg MacDonald
Sports Editor
Jim Paschal, athletic director and head coach of the University of La Verne women’s volleyball team, announced his resignation in January from his coaching position, effective immediately.
Paschal, named athletic director in 1992, feels he needs to commit more of his energy and efforts to the needs of the Athletic Department.
“I felt that after 24 seasons, I had given all I could to coaching; its been a great ride,” Paschal said. “And right now, this is an important time in terms of our entire athletic department, as far as setting the course for the future.”
The course for the women’s volleyball team future is set with new head coach Don Flora. Flora has been Paschal’s assistant coach for the past five years, and Paschal said he feels Flora is ready for the job.
“This is the right time for change, and I am confident in Don’s ability to carry on our tradition, both in terms of coaching and recruiting,” Paschal said. “The program, which I dearly love, is in good hands.”
Although Flora is going to be coaching his way, he said few things will change in comparison to Paschal’s philosophy.
“I think there’s some level of defensive training we will spend time on,” Flora said. “Jim has done a great job, so not a lot of things will be different.”
Paschal has coached the program for 24 years, including 16 post-seasons appearances and two national titles. Paschal compiled a record of 378-292-8, including a 174-60 Southern California Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SCIAC) record, over his tenure. He has coached nine SCIAC players of the year, 11 All-Americans and has had four players inducted into the ULV Athletic Hall of Fame.
Paschal was honored twice as American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) West Region Coach of the Year (1988 and 1989) and has served on the NCAA Division III National Championship Committee, the AVCA All-American Selection Committee and the AVCA Polling Committee for the ranking of Division III teams.
