UAlbany Announces Two-Year Contract Extension for Women's Basketball Coach Trina Patterson

Courtesy: UAlbany Sports Information

Albany, N.Y. -- University at Albany Vice President and Director of Athletics Lee McElroy announced on Tuesday, April 8 that head women's basketball coach Trina Patterson will receive a two-year contract extension. The agreement will extend the coach's contract through the 2009-10 season.

Patterson recently completed her sixth season as UAlbany's coach. She led the Great Danes to their most wins in America East Conference play with a 10-6 record and the program's second appearance in the conference postseason tournament's semifinal round. UAlbany won just one of its opening 12 games, but rebounded in the second half of the season to finish 13-18 overall. Patterson was voted the 2008 America East Coach of the Year.

"Trina Patterson and her staff did a fine job this season under difficult circumstances," McElroy said. "She kept the program together during a tough start to the season and her team excelled during the conference schedule. That effort was recognized by her peers when she was named the conference's top coach. The progress of the program has been significant."

Patterson was appointed as UAlbany's head coach on May 6, 2002. She became the ninth coach in team history. During her tenure, the Great Danes established the program's Division I record with 14 victories during the 2004-05 campaign. She led UAlbany to its first America East postseason appearance the previous year. Prior to her present position, Patterson was the head coach at William & Mary from 1991-99.

"I would like to thank the University at Albany and the entire athletic department for supporting women's basketball," said Patterson, who earned her second contract extension as UAlbany's basketball coach. "I have enjoyed my relationships and experiences with our coaching staff and student-athletes. The UAlbany program will continue to move forward in a positive direction that places emphasis on an uptempo offense and pressure defense. The staff and players were outstanding in making this season so special."