PYLE

The loss of a longtime babysitter for her preschool son was an important factor in former women’s gymnastics coach Amy Pyle’s decision to resign last week after leading her team to its finest season ever.

Pyle said that when her son’s babysitter moved away, it opened her eyes to the opportunities she was missing while juggling her family and coaching responsibilities.

“It was not an easy decision,” Pyle said. “The last couple of years, I have watched my son grow up, and I don’t want to feel like I am short-siding him.”

Pyle was named 2000 co-National Coach of the Year for Region 4 by the NCAA after the Cyclones finished eighth at the NCAA championships.

Even though she will miss coaching, Pyle said her decision will suit the immediate needs of her family.

“I have been coaching gymnastics since I was 14. I have a 4 1/2-year-old son, Alex. My husband is an accountant and works odd hours. I have to recruit on Saturdays, and by then, the weekends are over. I know that this is the best decision for my family and my son,” Pyle said.

Pyle’s record of 59-65 as head coach from 1994-2000 included appearances in the NCAA Regional Tournament every year except for 1995. In 2000, the Cyclones upset rival Nebraska to win the Big 12 Tournament and would later place eighth in the team’s first-ever trip to the NCAA National Championships.

The search for a new head coach is in progress, but Pyle said either of her assistant coaches would excel in the position if it is offered to them.

“Obviously if K.J. Kindler or Lou Ball are given the position, the transition for the team would be much easier,” Pyle said.

Senior Lauren Goldberg said the team would be just as good as last year and they will be ready to face the challenges placed in front of them.

“Losing Coach Pyle was a huge loss, but we will transition well, especially if K.J. [Kindler] or Lou [Ball] is the coach,” Goldberg said. “They did so much for us last year that we wouldn’t have many changes to face next year. Hopefully, we will be just as good if not better next season.”

Pyle said she will continue to aid the program as a Cardinal Club worker and hopes to continue teaching. Instead of coaching from the mats, Pyle said she will be a spectator in the stands with her family.

“This decision will give me much more flexibility,” Pyle said. “I will always be a Cyclone.”