Walker Takes Leave of Absence from University of Texas -- October 11, 2005

AUSTIN, Texas, October 11. AS of Monday, Jill Sterkel had sole control of the University of Texas women’s program. Mike Walker, the co-head coach with Sterkel, is taking an indefinite leave of absence. The leave was announced by Chris Plonsky, Texas’ Women’s Athletic Director. Walker and Plonsky will discuss his return “at an appropriate time.”

Walker and Sterkel have shared the head-coaching duties since 2000. During the last five years, the Longhorns have placed in the top seven at the NCAA Championships, including a third-place effort in 2001. Texas has won seven consecutive Big 12 Championships. Walker joined the school after coaching at California-Berkeley.

"Mike is one of our outstanding coaches and has worked relentlessly since he joined our staff," Plonsky said. "His request for time away right now is one that I fully support. Our staff members and student-athletes expect to continue forward toward a successful season."