Northern Illinois women’s coach steps down

"After 32 years of coaching, I believe it is in the best interest of the NIU women’s basketball program and myself to retire," Hammerle said. "At this point, the team has a strong foundation of talented, young women who have the potential to be successful. I would like to thank Athletics Director Jim Phillips for his outstanding support throughout the season, as well as the administration, the university, and the community for the opportunity to be part of this program."

The 56-year-old sideline pioneer recently concluded her seventh season with the Huskies and 32nd overall at the Division I level. Hammerle’s season and career ended on Saturday with a 76-61 loss to Toledo in the first round of the 2005 Mid-American Conference Tournament.

"On behalf of the university, we want to thank Carol for her loyalty to the program, her dedication to the student-athlete, and her many contributions to the women’s game," NIU athletic director Jim Phillips said. "We wish her well in the future. She is and always will be a member of the Huskie family."

She finished her Northern Illinois tenure with an 80-120 mark and a 536-346 overall record. Hammerle enjoyed her greatest success in 25 seasons at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, where she posted a 456-226 mark from 1973-98.