University of Oklahoma Athletics

OU Extends Coale's Contract

July 22, 1999 | Women's Basketball

By: Athletics Communications

July 22, 1999

NORMAN, Okla. - University of Oklahoma Director of Athletics Joe Castiglione announced the contract extension of Head Women's Basketball Coach Sherri Coale to four years. The OU Board of Regents approved Coale's new contract earlier this week.

"I appreciate the University's support of women's basketball, its belief in our staff, the direction in which we are taking the program and the belief that great things are right around the corner," said Coale.

With the extension, Coale was given an annual base salary raise to $100,100 plus benefits. Her previously salary was $90,100.

In just three seasons Coale has turned the women's basketball program around. Last year her team produced the school's first winning record (15-14) and first trip to postseason action (WNIT) since the 1994-95 season. She also coached OU's second freshman All-American (LaNeishea Caufield) and guided Phylesha Whaley, her first college recruit, to her third All-Big 12 honor.

"Across the board, we've seen a significant improvement in the program," said Castiglione. "We've also experienced a rise in the enthusiasm and support for women's basketball at the University of Oklahoma. I think those things reflect directly on the leadership Sherri Coale has provided."

After leading Norman High School to two state championships and earning coach-of-the-year honors, Coale was hired to take over OU's women's basketball program on April 8, 1996. Under Coale's tutelage, Oklahoma has produced an overall record of 28-55 and has continued to improve each recruiting class.

"We feel good about the direction in which the program is headed," added Castiglione. "We think this action recognizes not only her effort to date, but what the future holds for OU basketball with Sherri Coale as the head coach."

"It's an extremely exciting time for athletics at the University of Oklahoma," said Coale. "This is a wonderful institution for which to work and we're incredibility excited about taking the women's basketball program into the 21st century."

- OU -

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