'Wick Volleyball Coach Lou Lansing Announces Retirement

ONEONTA, NY – Longtime Hartwick College head volleyball coach Lou Lansing, after a career which spans close to 30 years, has decided to turn in her whistle. Lansing's decision to retire was made in consideration of her family and will take effect July 31.
           
Lansing, who is one of just two coaches in the history of the program, has piloted the Hartwick volleyball team since 1994, spanning 18 seasons. She led the Hawks to four postseason appearances and 208 victories over her tenure.
           
“Lou has served Hartwick College and the volleyball program for close to 30 years with passion and integrity,” said Hartwick Director of Athletics Kim Fierke. “She has touched the lives of hundreds of students and made a difference for all who have worked with her. The department thanks her for her commitment and wishes her a very happy retirement.”
             
A member of the Hartwick coaching staff since the fall of 1982, Lansing assisted with varsity field hockey and lacrosse programs and led the junior varsity programs for both sports. She also served as an assistant coach with the softball and women's basketball teams and worked as the associate sports information director. In 1993, was an assistant volleyball coach before taking over as head coach of the program the following year.
           
Under Lansing's direction, the Hawks made three appearances in the New York State Women's Collegiate Athletic Association (NYSWCAA) Volleyball Tournament. In 1997, 'Wick defeated two higher ranked teams and finished in fifth place to go along with a College-record 24 victories. Lansing's Hawks also earned state tournament bids in 1999 and 2007 and made an appearance in the Eastern Collegiate Athletic Conference (ECAC) in '07.
           
“While retirement is a bittersweet experience, it's truly the best decision for myself and my family,” said Lansing. “It's time to give back to my wonderful family, including my sons Tom and Steven and especially to my husband, Bob, for his unwavering support of me and my career choices. I look forward to spending time with him and we're going to enjoy our first free fall season together in almost thirty years.” 
           
Lansing was a two-sport athlete at Oneonta State, playing both field hockey and lacrosse for the Red Dragons. She was a two-year team captain in lacrosse and was named all-New York State in 1979. She received a bachelor's degree in social science education and completed her New York State coaching certification in 1980.
           
“I will always feel a special connection to Hartwick College, especially to the athletic department on the hill,” added Lansing. “I feel so fortunate to have worked with so many remarkable people who care about one another more than anything else and will cherish these relationships and memories forever. I am proud of the accomplishments of my student-athletes on the court, in the classroom, and in their lives beyond Hartwick and look forward to watching their continued success this fall and beyond.” 
           
A search is currently underway for Lansing's successor.