Nolan captures 400th career victory

The 2002-2003 women’s basketball season has been a year for teams and coaches to make milestones. The Connecticut Huskies and coach Geno Auriemma recently set a new consecutive winning streak record of 55. Tennessee’s head coach, Pat Summitt, picked up her 800th win recently as well.

This past weekend, Fairfield’s Dianne Nolan added to the milestones. On Friday, Jan. 16, the Lady Stags squeaked past Canisius 75-71 to grant Nolan her 400th victory at Fairfield.

“I was aware that the 400th was coming up. I was more happy to get a win for the girls than I was to get it for myself,” Nolan said. “It is a great sense of accomplishment, but I give tribute to all of my players and coaching staff. It was a culmination of efforts.”

Nolan, who graduated from Glassboro State University in 1973, began her coaching career 29 years ago at St. Francis College and came to Fairfield five years later.

She entered this year’s season with a 396-273 record with Fairfield and a 457-330 lifetime record. Nolan has a laudable coaching experience here with 18 winning seasons, three MAAC championships, four NCAA Tournament appearances, and assisted the team’s transition to the new Arena at Harbor Yard.

As a pioneer to the women’s basketball program, her colleagues greatly appreciate her many contributions and are happy to see her success.

Maryanne Palazzi, the academic coordinator, says, ” She has had a highly successful career, and this milestone has only added to it.” Palazzi had the opportunity to coach with Nolan for seven years.

Nolan has been known for giving back to the local communities that have supported the Stags over the years. Her summer Hoop School camp is another interaction her players have with the public.

Although the team has had a rough season of juggling injuries and other mishaps, Nolan (4-11) continues to keep her poise and has high hopes for the MAAC Tournament.

“It’s been an enjoyable coaching season despite our record,” Nolan said. “There is always a silver lining though, and we can definitely come through in the Tournament.”