ASU volleyball officials confirmed Thursday that Christine Garner, an assistant coach for three seasons, has been released from the team for the upcoming 2003 season.
Brad Saindon, who replaced 14-year head coach Patti Snyder-Park in December, would not elaborate on the exact reason for Garner's departure, but said he would explain when the time was right.
"When it's appropriate we'll make an announcement," Saindon said.
Saindon said Garner is on payroll through June but confirmed she would not be brought back in the fall. Garner's name placard has been removed from her office and she is no longer listed at the team's website. She was unavailable for comment Thursday.
"Both [current assistant Terri Cox] and Christine knew going into last year that this might happen when a new coach came in," Saindon said.
Devils host tourney
The Sun Devils have used their spring practice schedule to get used to a new playbook according to senior middle blocker Mandy Stephens.
"We're running different plays so it's hard to start all over your senior year," Stephens said. "So far, it has come a long way from the first practice of the spring until now."
ASU will get a chance to try its new offense Saturday as it hosts a tournament featuring UA, NAU and junior colleges from around the state.
"Since we're all learning a bunch of new stuff, this weekend helps us put it all together," Stephens said.
Saindon hopes the team focuses on improving and learning but admits that playing rival UA brings out the competitive spirit in ASU players and coaches.
"I want to beat [UA] every time we play them."
ASU junior outside hitter Natalie Harris said the team was ready for the weekend's tournament and said she has noticed improvements already.
"I think [the practices] are a lot different but along with frustration, we are getting a lot better," Harris said.
Competition begins at 9 a.m. at Wells Fargo Arena and continues throughout the day.
Reach the reporter at cameron.eickmeyer@asu.edu.
