March 27, 2003
LEXINGTON, Ky. – University of Kentucky volleyball assistant coach Jaime Gordon has resigned his position effective Monday, March 31, 2003, to become the head volleyball coach at Morehead State University. Gordon has served two stints as an assistant at UK and leaves after a combined six seasons with the program.
“I am extremely excited about the opportunity provided me by Morehead State and its Administration,” Gordon said. “A great deal of hard work and commitment has been put into the (MSU) program by its players and staff to establish itself as one of the best in the OVC. I plan to continue building on this solid foundation, and look forward to being a component of this administration’s vision.”
“This is a day of mixed emotions for me and my family,” Gordon continued. “While we are looking forward to a wonderful experience at Morehead, we have deep roots here at UK. As alums, my wife and I will always hold the Cats close to our hearts. I believe that the volleyball program has a bright future ahead. The women here are tremendous individuals, and I will miss each of them a great deal. I am grateful for my experience here and know in my heart that this department will accomplish remarkable things.”
Gordon replaces Mike Swan, who resigned in February after five years at MSU to take the head coaching job at Evansville. The Eagles finished the 2002 season with a 20-12 record and advanced to the semifinals of the Ohio Valley Conference Tournament before falling to Southeast Missouri State.
“I would like to express my gratitude of thanks for what Jaime has contributed to the growth and development of the University of Kentucky volleyball program,” Coach Jona Braden said. “He will leave behind a fullness that only comes from being dedicated to the cause, committing to the challenge and investing in the day-to-day. The UK volleyball program will continue to benefit from Jaime’s heartfelt desire for each player to become the best that she can be.
“I want to wish Jaime and his family the very best as he makes this transition into the head coaching position at Morehead State University.”
This marks Gordon’s second head coaching job as he served in the position at West Virginia Wesleyan from 1996-98. While at WVWU, he led the Bobcats to an 80-27 (.747) record. Gordon was named the 1996 WVIAC Coach of the Year, 1996 Tachikara Regional Coach of the Year runner-up and received the AVCA National Award for Academic Excellence. The Teaneck, N.J., native coached 15 All-Conference and seven All-Region players while leading his team to two NCAA Division II Tournament berths.
Gordon earned his bachelor’s degree in architecture in 1994 and earned another bachelor’s in art history, while completing his master’s degree in sport management in 1996.The search for Gordon’s replacement will begin immediately.