June 12, 2009

(San Franicsco) - USF women's volleyball head coach Gilad Doron led the Dons to the NCAA Tournament for the second time in program history last fall and was rewarded today with a multi-year contract extension as announced by Athletic Director Debra Gore-Mann.

"Gilad did a great job guiding USF volleyball to the best season in program history and an NCAA Tournament berth in one of the country's most challenging conferences," commented Gore-Mann. "Under his direction I am confident the volleyball program at USF will continue to emerge as one of the top teams on the West Coast."

Doron's extension comes on the heels of one of the most prolific seasons in San Francisco history. In just his second season at the helm of the Dons, Doron led USF to an impressive 22-8 record, including the program's second NCAA bid, and first since 2003. San Francisco finished 11-3 in the West Coast Conference for a program-high second place finish. The Dons' 22 wins fell one short of tying a school record of 23, while their 11 conference victories mark a program-best. In addition, the Dons were ranked for a program-best four consecutive weeks in the national top-25, including an all-time best rank of 22nd.

"I am honored by the confidence and trust the Athletic Department and the USF administration has in me to carry the Dons into the next era," commented Doron.

Under Doron's guidance, USF has landed eight All-West Coast Conference honorees, five WCC Player of the Week accolades, two All-Conference academic selections, a WCC Defender of the Year accolade and a WCC Player of the Month honor.

He has amassed a 39-21 (.650) record during his time on the Hilltop, and an 85-65 (.567) career record in his five years as a head coach.