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Coach Doleac retires after 25 years of guiding the Gallaudet softball program

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Gallaudet University Athletic Director Michael Weinstock announced the recent retirement of softball coach Sarah Doleac after serving 25 years in the position for the Bison. Doleac will remain an assistant professor in the Gallaudet Physical Education and Recreations Department.

"This was a tough decision to make but family and professional obligations demanded my attention," said Doleac. "I have thoroughly enjoyed these past 25 years coaching and teaching softball to deaf and hard of hearing student-athletes."

Doleac finishes her softball career with 240 victories as she coached in over 600 games for the Bison. She recorded her 200th career victory in 2004 with a win over Philadelphia Biblical University on March 27. In 1993, the Bison posted an impressive 16-4 record as Doleac earned Capital Athletic Conference Coach of the Year honors. That same season she was honored by the Bisonettes' Club with it's Woman of the Year award.

"We are sad to see Sarah go. We want to thank her for 25 years of tremendous service to Gallaudet University athletics," said Weinstock. "She will always be a part of our department."

Doleac is a proud graduate of Gallaudet (Class of 1982) where she played four years on the Bison field hockey and softball teams as well as one year on the basketball and tennis teams. She graduated with Kappa Delta Pi and Phi Alpha Pi honors and was named to the Dean's List six times. Doleac went onto earn a master's degree in Deaf Education from McDaniel College.

Doleac is married to her husband Craig (Class of 1976) and the couple has one daughter (Rebecca). Doleac expressed gratitude and appreciation to her former players and assistant coaches over the years that were instrumental in improving the Bison softball program led by longtime assistant coach Russell Perkins, who joined Doleac's staff in 1986.

"I really cherish all of my assistant coaches," said Doleac. "Each assistant coach contributed their skills, positive attitudes, motivation and great leadership abilities with the team."

A search for Doleac's replacement will begin immediately with plans to have someone in place before the start of the 2010 softball season.