After more than a decade, the William Woods University women's basketball program is undergoing a change at the top.
Dan Chapla - the winningest coach in school history - on Wednesday announced his resignation at William Woods, effective June 14. Chapla is leaving after 11 seasons with the Lady Owls to become the women's associate head coach at NCAA Division I Western Illinois University.
"I want to thank (William Woods president) Dr. (Jahnae) Barnett, Larry York (who hired me) and our current AD, Jason Vittone, for their support and encouragement the past 11 years," Chapla said. "I especially want to thank our current and former players whose talents both on and off the court have allowed me and my family to have this opportunity."
Chapla logged a 257-103 overall record (.714 win percentage) during his tenure at William Woods, guiding the Lady Owls to nine straight appearances in the NAIA national tournament. He directed William Woods to 20-plus wins in 10 of his 11 seasons, including a program-high 30 victories in his third year with the Lady Owls.
"Leaving WWU was the hardest decision of my professional life, but I have always been told if you leave a job, just make sure it is better than when you found it," Chapla said. "I am proud to say that with the help of several graduate assistants, we have done just that.
"I am really excited to begin the next chapter of my professional career knowing that I can always look back on our success here with great pride. Regardless of where my journey may end up, one thing is for certain - I will always be an Owls fan."
Chapla was named American Midwest Conference coach of the year after his first season with the Lady Owls. During his 11 years at William Woods, he had seven NAIA All-Americans - including a three-time selection, a WBCA All-American, a two-time AMC player of the year, two AMC newcomers of the year, two AMC freshman of the year winners, 11 all-AMC first-team picks, six second-team choices and six third-team selections.
In academics, Chapla coached 28 Daktronics-NAIA scholar-athletes and 117 academic all-AMC recipients.
"We are certainly disappointed to lose a coach of Dan's caliber, but I am very excited for him," Vittone said. "This is a great opportunity for him and I wish him the best.
"Prior to Dan's arrival, the program had nine wins over a two-year stretch. After Dan's arrival, we had nine NAIA Tournament appearances, including a trip to the Elite 8. His student-athletes always represented the university in a positive fashion.
"They excelled on the court, in the classroom and in the community. I couldn't be prouder of what Dan and his program have accomplished over the past 11 years."
Vittone noted that a search for Chapla's replacement has begun.
Ryan Boland can be reached at (573) 826-2422, or on Twitter @FultonSunSports.