Kim Eiler is stepping down from her coaching position to become a full-time professor. Franklin athletics photo

Kim Eiler has resigned as head women’s basketball coach at Franklin, athletic director Kerry Prather announced today.

Eiler, who guided the Grizzlies to a 25-3 season and a berth in the Division III NCAA Tournament in 2011-12, is stepping down to become a full-time tenure track professor in Franklin’s department of physical education. 

“Coach Eiler took over a program with a solid foundation and moved it to the next level of consistent excellence. Our women expect to be successful, and that is our goal for all our sports,” said Prather.

“Along the way, Kim has helped raise the visibility of the program and created a wonderful relationship between her players and the residents of the Indiana Masonic Home which is a great experience for everyone involved. She obviously has much to offer Franklin College academically, and I’m pleased she will continue to strengthen our physical education program.”

“Coaching here has been an incredible journey,” said Eiler. “It has been a great career and I am excited about the next phase of my life.

“I want to thank Franklin College for hiring me as its head coach eight years ago. And many thanks to our players who have made my experience so enjoyable.”

During the recently completed season, Eiler guided Franklin to a school-record 25 victories, its sixth Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference championship, its seventh appearance in the NCAA Tournament and a top 15 ranking in the D3hoops.com Top 25.

She posted a 151-64 record in eight seasons at Franklin and a 243-143 mark in 14 campaigns as a head coach overall. The Grizzlies achieved an overall winning record in every season but one during her coaching tenure.

Eiler was appointed as the seventh head coach of the Franklin women’s basketball team in August 2004.  She has been an instructor in physical education since her arrival at FC.