After coaching both field hockey and women's lacrosse at the University of Mary Washington for the past 21 years, Dana Hall will step down as field hockey coach effective immediately to focus solely on the women's lacrosse program, according to UMW Director of Athletics Dr. Ed Hegmann. UMW will begin a search immediately for a new field hockey head coach.

"It's been a long-time goal to have all of the coaches at UMW coach a single sport", said Hegmann. "It's been requested every year for more than 10 years, and now we have the opportunity to decrease our number of multiple-sport coaches." Hegmann added, "We hope to find someone to carry on the strong tradition of UMW field hockey, and maintain the success we've had over the years." 

In 21 years as head coach of the field hockey program, Hall won 277 games while dropping just 130, with three ties, good for a .679 winning percentage. Hall led UMW to eight NCAA Championship appearances, including in 2010. She led the Eagles all the way to the NCAA Championship game in 1993, and also captured four Capital Athletic Conference championships in her tenure.

"It is especially difficult for me to make this decision, as I have treasured the opportunities to work with each student-athlete", said Hall. "Over the past thirty years of coaching I have attempted to share my love of the game and bring out the passion and competitive spirit in all of my team members."
 
She will now focus on a lacrosse program that has advanced to eight NCAA Tournament appearances, and won a total of 223 games against just 132 losses. "I'm excited about the challenges and goals ahead for both programs", she added. Hall will continue to serve as Senior Women's Administrator and Assistant Athletic Director.

The search for a new head coach will begin immediately. The incoming coach will have the added bonus of a new lighted artificial turf field that will be online in the fall of 2011.