March 8, 2004
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UI Women’s Swimming Coach Garland O’Keeffe has decided to step down and devote full time to motherhood. O’Keeffe is just completing her fourth year as Iowa’s head coach.
“My number one priority in life is my family,” said O’Keeffe. “I’ve found that coaching doesn’t allow me the time I need to devote to my husband and 18-month-old son, Bailey. Being a mother is a full-time job and I want to treat it that way.
“I have enjoyed, and will always be grateful for, the opportunity I’ve had to work within the Iowa Athletic Department. And, obviously, the thing I’ll miss the most is my association and interaction with the student-athletes.”
Her resignation will become effective Mar. 22.
“Garland has done a nice job with our women’s swimming program,” said Iowa Athletic Director Bob Bowlsby. “While we hate to lose a member of our coaching staff, we fully understand and comply with her wishes to devote more time to her family. We wish her and her family nothing but the best.”
O’Keeffe’s dual meet record at Iowa is 21-23.