Virginia women’s hoops coach retires, cites family matter

Virginia women’s basketball coach Joanne Boyle says she is retiring because of a family matter.

The announcement by the school Tuesday did not provide details on the family matter. Boyle’s retirement comes only days after the Cavaliers were knocked out of the NCAA Tournament with a second-round loss to defending national champion South Carolina.

The 54-year-old Boyle spent seven seasons at Virginia, compiling a 129-98 record, including 19-14 this year. The NCAA appearance was the program’s first in nine seasons.

“The person who is the head coach of this program needs to fully commit themselves and give their all to these deserving young women,” Boyle said in a statement released by the school. “Due to a family matter that may require more time away from the program, I am not able to dedicate the time I need to our team. For that reason, it is best for me to step aside.”

Boyle arrived at Virginia after six seasons at California, a move that marked her return to Virginia, and the ACC. She spent three seasons as the head coach at Richmond before getting hired by Cal, and before that spent nine seasons as an assistant at Duke. Her overall record is 333-191 and includes six NCAA Tournament appearances in 16 seasons.

Boyle spent some time away from her team three years ago while working to adopt a child from Senegal.

First-year athletic director Carla Williams, who has a women’s basketball background after playing at Georgia, says a search for Boyle’s replacement will begin immediately.