June 12, 2008

The head coach of the UNBC men’s basketball team has announced that hewill be pursuing new opportunities with the University and making wayfor a new head coach who will take the team to nationals this comingseason. Zane Robison has accepted a position with UNBC’s StudentRecruitment and Advising Office, effective July 2.

“I’m very excited about my new position and the opportunity to advancemy career at UNBC,” says Robison. “This university has been a big partof my life and I’m eager to give back in an area that is so important.Working with students has always been the best part of coaching and nowI’ll be working with hundreds of students who are just beginning theirassociation with UNBC. It has been a tough decision – especially withUNBC hosting nationals this year – but it’s a great move personally andprofessionally for me. I’ve contacted the returning players and newrecruits and all are supportive of my decision and excited to play atUNBC. While many recruits develop a close bond with the coach, theUniversity and our new facility are powerful attractions.”

Link: UNBC Athletics

Originally from the Kootenays, Robison graduated with a bachelor’sdegree from UNBC in 2000 after transferring to UNBC from OkanaganUniversity College in Kelowna. He was named head coach of the men’sbasketball team in 2001.

“I can’t think of anyone who has brought more to men’s basketball atUNBC than Zane Robison,” says UNBC Athletics Director Len McNamara. “Hestarted the team by recruiting fellow students in the hallways at UNBCand he ended his formal relationship with the team by guiding them toan unforgettable first season in the new Charles Jago Northern SportCentre. We know that he’ll continue his association with Athletics andthe University is fortunate to keep someone with his experience andpassion. In addition, his new position in student recruitment willprove invaluable for all of our teams in their efforts to recruitstudent-athletes.”

The University, meanwhile, has hired an Athletics Marketing and SalesOfficer, who will be responsible for raising the profile of Athleticsand attracting scholarships and corporate sponsors. The position isbeing filled by Kelly Sharp, a former radio and television sportscasterwho has marketing experience with the Prince George Spruce Kings andthe Canadian Cancer Society.

The search for a new head coach will begin immediately.

Contact:
Len McNamara, Athletics Director, UNBC – 250.960.6358
Rob van Adrichem, Director of Media and Public Relations, UNBC – 250.960.5622