Aug. 23, 2010

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. - Illinois Director of Athletics Ron Guenther announced today that Bob Starkell, who has served on the women's gymnastics staff for 17 years, including the last 11 as head coach, has resigned for personal reasons. He also served as Director of Gymnastics, overseeing both the men's and women's programs during the 2009-10 academic year.

Kim Landrus, who has been on staff for the last eight years, including the last four years as associate head coach, has been named the interim head coach for the 2010-11 season. Landrus and current Illini assistant Amy Kruse were named co-National Assistant Coaches of the Year in 2009. Landrus was also the South Central Region Assistant Coach of the Year in 2005. A search will begin immediately for an assistant coach to join Landrus and Kruse on staff.

Starkell was the 2009 National Coach of the Year after leading the Illini to their first-ever NCAA Championship appearance, and a three-time Big Ten Coach of the Year (2005, 2009, 2010).