Kelly Packard's inaugural season, 2008-09, as coach of Ball State women's basketball was the best in school history. Packard led Ball State to its first MAC Tournament Championship and eventual 71-55 first-round upset then two-time defending national champion Tennessee.
But her first-year impact on the program was quickly forgotten after three straight losing seasons, leading to her resignation Wednesday.
"I have made the decision to resign [from] my position to pursue other personal and professional endeavors," Packard said in a press release.
Athletic Director Tom Collins expressed gratitude and empathy to Packard, following her decision to resign.
"I respect Kelly's unforced decision to step down as the women's basketball coach," Collins said in a press release. "Kelly has represented Ball State with class and dignity, and has been a great role model for her student-athletes. Her leadership has provided her players with a solid foundation for success following their collegiate careers. She has been a great member of the Ball State Athletics family, and we wish her and her family the best of luck in their future endeavors."
On the heels of her first season behind Ball State's bench, Packard led the Cardinals to a 14-17 season in 2009-10. From then on, the losses began to pile up. Packard's final two seasons were identical, as the Cardinals finished at 9-21.
Over her four seasons, Packard amassed a combined record of 58-68, including a mark of 29-37 in the Mid-American Conference.
Though she wasn't able to get the program back on track, Packard will always be thankful for the opportunity to lead a program like Ball State.
"I will always treasure the opportunity to be a part of the program's first NCAA Tournament big and the first-round upset of two-time defending national champion Tennessee," Packard said in a news release. "I have developed valued friendships and fond memories while leading the program.
"It has been an honor to represent Ball State University" she continued. "And I wish the very best to all the current and future student-athletes, and the overall success of the program."
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