NEWS from
CENTENARY COLLEGE OF LOUISIANA

Vardeman Steps Down as Centenary's Head Basketball Coach

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, March 24, 1997
Contact: Christopher Norris, Sports Information Director,
318-869-5092

SHREVEPORT, LA -- Centenary College announced today that Tommy Vardeman is stepping down as head men's basketball coach after 18 years of service to the college. The announcement came this afternoon from Centenary Director of Athletics Russ Sharp.

Vardeman first came to Centenary as an assistant coach under Tommy Canterbury in 1979 before being named head coach prior to the 1989-90 season. He also served as interim athletic director for the 1993-94 school year.

In his eight seasons as head coach, Vardeman compiled a 104-119 (.466) record. He led the Gents to a Trans America Athletic Conference Championship in 1990 and was twice named TAAC Coach of the Year.

"Tommy Vardeman has been a valuable part of the athletic program for many, many years. I personally appreciate what he has done for me and the program. He will be missed," said Sharp.

The search for a replacement will begin immediately.

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