Florida Gulf Coast University assistant Fernanda Nelson will supplant Jody Brown, according to the Naples Daily News. Nelson was an assistant at FGCU for four seasons. She previously was an assistant at her alma mater, National American University, for four seasons as well.
“As a head coach, you kind of become a proud parent because you know what a quality coach she is,” FGCU head coach Dave Nichols told the Daily News. “She’s completely ready and deserves a chance to improve her status and income. So it’s bittersweet because I adore her and she’s been great for the program. At the same time, we take pride when our people get great opportunities.”
Nelson was the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics National Player of the Year in 2001 and 2003. She was a member of the Brazilian national team, and in 1997 and was named the top setter in her country.
Last season, the Owls finished 3-26 and went winless (0-16) in conference play under Brown. He amassed a 225-263 record, leading FAU to the NCAA Tournament in 2005 while they were in the Atlantic Sun Conference. However, the Owls have had six straight losing seasons.
Football: Former Nebraska defensive coordinator Carl Pelini hired Dec. 5, 2011 (Howard Schnellenberger steps down: 1998-2011)
Athletic Director: TBD (Craig Angelos fired March 21, 2012 : was AD from 2003-2012)
Men’s Basketball: FAU head coach Mike Jarvis accepts three-year contract extension on April 17, 2012
Women’s Basketball: Former Nebraska assistant Kellie Lewis-Jay hired May 2, 2012 (Chancellor Dugan resigns: 1999-2012)
Volleyball: Former Florida Gulf Coast University assistant Fernanda Nelson hired June 2, 2012 (Jody Brown fired: 1995-2011)
