Nov. 19, 2007

AUBURN-Laura Farina, the Auburn volleyball coach the past six years has resigned announced Athletics Director Jay Jacobs Sunday.

In six seasons, Farina led Auburn to a 54-115 overall record including a 17-87 mark in Southeastern Conference matches. Auburn concluded the 2007 campaign with an 11-20 (3-17 SEC) mark after a 3-0 loss at LSU on Sunday.

"This decision has come with much thought and mindfulness," Farina said. "The athletes, specifically the seniors, have given much to build a foundation for success. Thank you to the players, the parents and the staffs who work closely with this team for their enthusiasm and support of this program throughout my time at Auburn."

In her six-year tenure, the 38-year-old Farina coached 15 student-athletes that were named to the SEC Academic Honor Roll, including Rachel Shanks, who became Auburn's first-ever SEC Volleyball Scholar-Athlete of the Year in 2006. Shanks was also a CoSIDA/ESPN The Magazine Academic All-American last season. Farina coached Whitney Jacobs to SEC All-Freshman team honors in 2004.

"We appreciate Laura's hard work and dedication over the last six years," Athletics Director Jay Jacobs said. "We wish her the best of luck in her future endeavors."

A 1992 Illinois graduate, Farina's 54 career wins are third all-time in Auburn's 22-year volleyball history. Farina was named the Tigers' sixth head coach on March 29, 2002.

Auburn's search process for a new volleyball coach will begin immediately.