UNC Field Hockey: Legendary coach Karen Shelton announces retirement

After a legendary 42-year career as the UNC Field Hockey program’s head coach, Karen Shelton has announced her retirement. 

Karen Shelton has decided to go out in style.

The legendary head coach of the UNC Field Hockey program has decided to retire, as her final game capped off an undefeated national championship season. She’ll be stepping down from her role after leading the Tar Heels for the past 42 seasons.

Not many coaches can say they’ve had even half the success Shelton has had during her time in Chapel Hill.

With a career record of 745-172-9, Shelton is the winningest coach in the sport’s history. Her 10 NCAA championships and 39 NCAA tournament appearances are also college field hockey records.

During her tenure, the UNC field hockey program had 40 winning seasons over the 42-year span. The Tar Heels also captured 25 ACC championships during her time leading the program.

Here’s what Shelton had to say regarding her retirement, courtesy of Go Heels:

"“I don’t have the words for what it has meant to represent the University of North Carolina for the past 42 years. The decision to retire is an extremely difficult one, but I feel like it’s the right time, on the heels of an outstanding season. I’m so grateful for this opportunity, to John Swofford, who took a chance on hiring me, to Dick Baddour and now Bubba Cunningham and Chancellor Guskiewicz and all of the other administrators and colleagues I’ve had the pleasure of working with. I’ve had amazing coaches on my staffs over the years, none better than my current assistants: Grant, Poppy and Manuel. Most of all I’m grateful to the many Tar Heels who have been part of our program as players and continue to support us. You all have represented Carolina so well, and I’m honored to have been your coach.”"

Another legendary coaching career at the University of North Carolina comes to an end, as Karen Shelton put together an illustrious career. Her mark on the UNC field hockey program will always be remembered, as she turned the Tar Heels into a true national powerhouse during her coaching career.