Women's volleyball head coach Randy Litchfield, earlier named one of three finalists for a similar position at Purdue, will remain at Ball State for his 15th season.
Litchfield was informed Thursday morning by Purdue Associate Athletics Director Roger Blalock that the job had been offered to Muncie Central High School coach Dave Shondell.
Litchfield, who has compiled a 302-125 record in 14 seasons of guiding the Cardinals, reiterated that he had not been looking to leave Ball State.
"I never pursued the job," Litchfield said. "I never formally applied. Purdue was interested, but I think they went with the candidate they thought stood the best chance of building the program. I'm absolutely elated to be coaching my team at Ball State."
Litchfield said his visit to Purdue produced mixed impressions.
"I was very impressed with the university and athletic department," he said. "The volleyball program is amidst its fair share of difficulties, primarily losing." Purdue was 44-79 in four years under its last coach.
Shondell, a 1981 graduate of Ball State, brings a record of 595-115 in 22 years of coaching, including 428-52 and four state titles in 13 seasons at Muncie Central. He also led a highly successful Munciana club team. Shondell is the son of legendary BSU men's volleyball coach Don Shondell.
"He's a volleyball veteran and a proven coach, although not a proven collegiate coach," Litchfield said of Shondell. "I think Dave did a great job of showing the contacts he has. This has been a dream of Dave's. Once the adjustment period of being in the college environment happens, I'm sure he'll be fine."
Meanwhile, Litchfield's own players are relieved he is staying.
"I feel a little guilty, that maybe I ran my team and family through some tough times," said Litchfield, a five-time Mid-American Conference Coach of the Year. "I'm glad that it's over, and we can get back to normalcy.
"What I've learned in the process is what a great program I'm able to work in at Ball State."
Litchfield's Cardinals went 25-8 in 2002, their 11th straight 20-win season. They also won their sixth MAC Championship before falling to Louisville in the NCAA Tournament.
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