CLINTON, Iowa - Ashford University women's basketball and men's golf Head Coach Chris Powers has announced he will step down from his current position effective in May, concluding a seven-year tenure with the Saints.
Powers will leave Ashford to pursue a number of different career opportunities within the area. He and his wife, Stacy, reside in nearby Camanche and are expecting their first child in the near future.
"Coach Powers has had a very positive influence on student-athletes during his time here at Ashford University," Ashford Athletics Director Meg Schebler said. "As an alumnus and coach of two sports, I know he bleeds purple and gold and I don't expect that to change. While he will be missed, we wish the Powers family the best as they embark on a new and exciting chapter in their lives."
Powers coached the Saints for five years at the helm of the women's basketball program while coaching the men's golf team for as many seasons.
"This was a very difficult decision for me to make, but it's the right decision for me and my family," Powers said. "This is a very demanding job because we're gone six nights a week and almost every weekend."
"My life and priorities have changed and the most important aspect in my life now is my wife and future children," he added. "Life is too short and children grow up so quickly and I don't want to miss that time with them."
Powers was a standout athlete in basketball and baseball at Clinton High School and went on to become Ashford's (then-Mount St. Clare College) all-time career leader in assists (598) as a point guard. He still holds the single-season school record in assists (216) while scoring over 1,200 points and was an all-conference pitcher for the MSC's baseball squad.
Following
his collegiate career with the Mounties, he stayed on as a men's basketball
assistant coach for two years (1997-98, 1998-99). After successful stints at
"I have enjoyed my time working here for seven of the last 14 years and appreciate the opportunities I have been given here," Powers said.
A search by the University will be conducted to fill the open position.
