Royster Leaves Track Program

July 18, 2006

, - of assistant women's track and field coach Melody Royster has decided to pursue her doctorate in physical therapy at and has left the UC track program.

"Melody's departure leaves a void in our track program that will be hard to replace," women's head coach Jim Schnur said. "She was great to work with and put her heart and soul into everything that she did. She will be sincerely missed."

Royster, who finished her second season with the Bearcats in 2006, was responsible for the training of sprinters and hurdlers on both the men's and women's teams as well as recruiting, travel planning and team meals. A graduate of , Royster began her coaching career as an assistant at before joining the Bearcats prior to the 2004-05 school year.

"Melody galvanized our sprints and hurdles team, a group that led our charge into the BIG EAST," men's head coach Bill Schnier said. "Under her direction, we got a lot done. In addition, Melody was extremely popular with the coaches and student-athletes alike."

A search for a replacement will commence immediately.