March 14, 2002

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - Janet Cone, the only head coach in the five-year history of women's basketball at Samford, has resigned to become assistant athletics director at the school, Samford director of athletics Bob Roller announced Thursday.

Cone, who joined Samford in 1996 and led the team on the court in 1997, had served as head women's basketball coach at three universities prior to joining the Bulldogs. Along with coaching stints at Mars Hill (1986-1990), Western Carolina (1990-1993) and St. Leo (Fla.) College (1994-1995), Cone served as the first full-time assistant athletics director at St. Leo.

"I have had the time of my life for the past six years," said Cone. "I have fallen in love with Samford, I believe in its mission, in Dr. Corts, and I think the world of Bob Roller as an athletic director. I came here to start the women's basketball program and right now I feel like I can help not only women's basketball but all of the sports more in this position than I could as a coach. I am excited about this opportunity to help all of Samford athletics."

"Janet was a tireless promoter of women's basketball and all Samford athletics while taking on an extremely difficult task of starting a Division I program from scratch," Roller said. "We are delighted that she has chosen to remain at Samford where we can utilize her many strengths in our athletics department."

Cone led Samford to its first winning season in 1999-2000 when she guided the team to a 19-10 overall record. She was honored with the Alabama State Association of Health Physical Education and Dance (ASAHPERD) Service Award on Nov. 13, 2001. Roller stated that a search for Cone's replacement as head coach would begin immediately.