July 7, 2004

ABILENE, Texas - After four years of total domination of the American Southwest Conference, Hardin-Simmons Head Men's and Women's Tennis Coach Jimmy Cole has resigned to pursue a job opportunity in sales.

Cole led the Cowgirls to four straight American Southwest Conference titles, a 48-14 overall record, a 32-0 record in ASC play, a No. 1 South Region ranking this past season and led the Cowgirls to the NCAA Division III Tournament for the first time this season. He also coached Rebecca Watkins to All-American honors this season and Watkins' along with doubles partner Nancy Chandler qualified for the NCAA in doubles.

His female student-athletes have accumulated 24 All-ASC West Division awards and four player of the year awards. He was named the ASC West Coach of the Year all four years at Hardin-Simmons.

On the men's side, he led the Cowboys to the last three conference titles. He has consistently had the team in the South region rankings and his teams have not lost to an ASC foe since the 2002 season, a span of 21 matches. He had an overall record of 44-18 at Hardin-Simmons, including a 27-1 record against ASC foes. He has coached 25 players to All-ASC West Division honors and had the ASC West player of the year all four years. He was the ASC West coach of the year all four years.

"We are grateful for how Jimmy Cole has represented our university as a student-athlete and as a member of our athletic department. We wish Jimmy and his family the best of luck as they make this transition into his new career."

A search for his replacement will begin immediately. Both teams will return a number of players from this year's team as they look to defend conference titles.