March 3, 2008

ANNAPOLIS, Md. -- Tom Marryott announced Monday that he will not return as the head coach of the Navy women's basketball team after the conclusion of Navy's 2008 postseason.

"I have enjoyed my tenure at the Academy, especially my opportunity to work with the midshipmen student-athletes," said Marryott. "I have determined that it is time for a new coaching direction and leadership for the program. Our staff has put in place a solid foundation and we are confident the new staff will realize success in the near future."

"Tom has displayed unquestioned dedication, loyalty and leadership for a decade as a member of the Naval Academy family," said Navy director of athletics Chet Gladchuk. "He has been one of the most respected professionals on our staff and his positive influence on many will be missed. We thank him and his staff for their many contributions towards the development of our midshipmen."

Marryott has been associated with Navy basketball for the last two decades, first serving as the athletic director and basketball coach at the Naval Academy Prep School for 10 years, followed by five seasons as an assistant with the Navy men's team before becoming head coach of the women's program in the spring of 2003.

Navy will face second-seeded Holy Cross Saturday at 5 p.m. in the quarterfinal round of the Patriot League Tournament being played at West Point, N.Y.