July 29, 2010 UPS Release: Payne Selected to Lead Loggers SEATTLE - Seven years ago when Loree Payne plunged into her career as an assistant coach, the goal in the back of her mind was to run a program. This week the Huskies legend achieved a lifelong career goal when the University of Puget Sound tapped her to become its head women's basketball coach. While Payne said it's heartbreaking the leave the one program she's known for much of her adult life, she's also excited to embark on a fun and challenging venture with the Division III Loggers. "From Day One I've always wanted to be a head coach," Payne said. "And through the journey of being at Northwest Nazarene University, the University of Portland and the UW, I kind of realized it's place like UPS where I can see myself being there for the long run to maintain and establish a successful program." A large part of the education process towards being a head coach came from her time coaching under Tia Jackson, who is entering her fourth year at Washington. The two coaches had adjoining offices, and Payne viewed Jackson as one of her biggest mentors. During her three years on Montlake, Payne continually rose in rank as an assistant. "We couldn't be more proud of Loree and this wonderful opportunity she is embarking upon," Jackson said. "She has been a great teacher in our Husky program and I am positive that the lessons and experiences she's had will bring tremendous success to her and the members of her new family at Puget Sound." Staying in the Pacific Northwest was important for Payne, considering it's the only region she's ever coached. Payne is taking over a program in Tacoma that went 24-5 last season, and made the first round of the Division III NCAA Tournament. Despite the fantastic opportunity she was offered, the decision to leave the program that defined her was difficult, particularly the bonds she formed with her student-athletes and Coach Jackson. "Absolutely, it was a very difficult decision because I have so much Husky Pride," Payne said. "And just because I'm not working at UW, doesn't mean I'm not a Husky for life. Once you're a Washington student-athlete, you're an alum forever. You'll always support the purple and gold." Payne was a four-year letterwinner at Washington, where she scored 1,675 points throughout her standout career. The Havre, Mont., native still holds several prestigious records at Hec-Ed, most notably the most 3-point field goals made. As a coach, Payne helped develop the guards, honing the prolific talents of players like Sami Whitcomb and Kristi Kingma. It's a big reason why Jackson feels Payne will be able to ease into her new position at Puget Sound. "Coach Payne played an integral part in the growth of our program over the past three years, assisting with player development, scouting, and academic services," Jackson said. "Because we all take part in every aspect of the development of our players on and off the court, I am positive that Loree is prepared for this new endeavor and will soar as the new leader of the Logger women's basketball program" |
