February 28, 2006
Release courtesy of Dave Blanchard, Luther College sports information director

DECORAH, IOWA . . . Jeff Olinger, Luther College men’s basketball coach, has announced he has resigned his duties as head basketball coach.

Olinger, who serves as the college's assistant athletic director, will continue his administrative duties with the athletic department through May. A search for his replacement is currently under way.

“We are very appreciative of Jeff’s efforts and dedication to Luther College and the men’s basketball program over the past 15 years,” said Joe Thompson, director of athletics. “Under Jeff’s leadership, the men’s basketball program has been competitive, continually displayed a high level of integrity, and enriched the lives of our student-athletes both on and off the basketball court.

"We wish Jeff and his family all the best in their future endeavors and want to express our sincere gratitude for his many years of fine service to Luther College,” Thompson said.

Olinger completes his Luther coaching career ranked second all-time for career victories in the college's history. He led his teams to eight Iowa Conference tournament appearances, and coached 17 all-conference performers and seven 1,000-point scorers.

“I feel blessed to have been the basketball coach at Luther the past 15 years,” stated Olinger. “I leave Luther basketball with fond memories and special relationships.

"I appreciate all the support from the Luther and Decorah communities, athletic department colleagues and especially the athletes. I am proud of all the things that were accomplished during my time as basketball coach," he said.

"I leave coaching satisfied with my effort and intent to make playing basketball at Luther a special experience. This is a very high energy profession and I want to walk away from coaching with the energy to pursue a different career and enjoy more time with my family,” Olinger said.

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