Gonzaga volleyball coach Diane Nelson announces resignation

Gonzaga head volleyball coach Diane Nelson announced Thursday she will resign at the end of the year after six seasons in the position and a 67-91 record.

The Bulldogs are 7-16 in 2021 with six matches remaining on their schedule. Nelson’s most successful season was her first in 2016 with a 17-11 record, when GU finished fourth in the West Coast Conference. The Zags have not had a winning season since.

“I am so grateful for the family I have at Gonzaga,” Nelson said. “The decision to step down was not taken lightly, but I know it is best for me and my family.”

Nelson was the first alum to serve as head coach of the volleyball program. She played from 1995-98 and is eighth on GU’s all-time list with 95 aces. Nelson’s 67 wins as head coach are fourth most in school history.

The university said it will begin a national coaching search soon.