Thursday, April 8, 2010

Pingeton leaves high flying Redbirds for MU Tigers

Robin Pingeton is leaving the Illinois State Redbirds after 7 years as head coach and taking her assistants with her.

I can't say it is a real shock that a large D1 school had their eyes on her or even that she took the job. She is certainly qualified. It did surprise me that it happened so fast with what seemed to me as little discussion about it by anyone. Of late, the only real converstations I'd overheard were about 1st assistant Randy Norton who was reported to be a consideration at Indiana State. Randy last week expressed his desire to stay in Bloomington-Normal while his family enjoyed his daughters last year at Central Catholic High as a part of the recent State Champion Lady Saints.

Well, surprise, surprise. It will be interesting to hear the reactions in the community. Robin has been great at ISU and has really built a program that was hardly even noticed under her predecessor Jenny Yopp. At the 7 year mark, Robin had shown both her prowness on the court as well as that with recruiting. The program is truly hers. On the other hand, it's depressing or maybe just sad to see someone experienceing so much success and community recognition to just leave it all behind. Robin, we'll miss you.

ISU - find a suitable replacement. We know there is only one Robin, but this program is really buzzing and the community doesn't want to see it lose any steam. The 6000+ crowd at the last game should prove that the community really like to watch the women on the court.

As always, there are photos. I've been fortunate enough to have been shooting for Robin's complete career at ISU. So, here's a 25 image tribute. And yes, it really did take me 5 years to get a shot of Robin's 4 finger whistle.


Robin Pingeton - Images by Alan Look

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