ADRIAN, Mich. – Siena Heights University men's and women's golf head coach Al Sandifer announced his intention to step away from his coaching duties effective immediately. He will continue his administrative role as the Assistant Athletic Director of Business Operations for Siena Heights Athletics.
"We are grateful for Al's immeasurable contributions to Siena Heights Athletics through all the years," said Siena Heights Director of Athletics Sue Syljebeck. "While we are sad to say goodbye to one of our colleagues in the coaching ranks, we are happy that Al will continue to be involved with athletics in an administrative capacity."
Coach Sandifer has been at the helm of the SHU golf programs since the 2012-13 season. Before taking the reins of the Saints golf teams, he had stints as a head coach for men's basketball and the softball team.
"It has been an honor and privilege to coach at the college for the past forty years," stated Sandifer. "What an incredible journey filled with so many wonderful memories. I will miss coaching but am excited about what the future holds."
Sandifer coached men's basketball for four seasons after serving as interim head coach in 2006-07. During his four years with men's hoops, he accumulated a 61-64 record. Coach Sandifer oversaw the SHU softball program from 1986 to 1995.
Sandifer's softball teams dominated during his time on the diamond, including 271 wins and an appearance in the NAIA Tournament in 1991. Sandifer earned numerous awards as the softball coach, including NAIA District 23 Coach of the Year and Regional Coach of the Year. In addition, he was the Wolverine-Hoosier Athletic Coach of the Year three times and led the team to three WHAC championships in their four appearances, with him at the helm.
Sandifer came to Siena in 1976 as a student, where he was a member of the men's basketball team and spent nearly five decades as a member of the Siena Heights community. He was named the Siena Heights Athlete of the Year in 1978 and was elected team MVP following the 1977-78 season.
The search for a new Siena Heights men's and women's golf head coach will begin immediately.
