Date Posted: 9/11/2006

MACON, Ga. - Mercer University Athletics Director Bobby Pope has announced the appointment of Associate Athletics Director and Senior Woman Administrator Sybil Blalock as interim head women's basketball coach for the 2006-07 season.

Blalock replaces Brenda Welch-Nichols, who resigned Aug. 22 to accept the head coaching position at Sam Houston State University, her alma mater, in Huntsville, Texas.

Blalock served as the first assistant at Mercer under Billy Holmes from 1994 through 2001 and, prior to that, spent eight years on the staff at the University of New Orleans. Her playing experience includes four years at Mercer, where she ranks as the fifth all-time leading scorer, and is a member of the school's Athletic Hall of Fame. In addition, she played professionally in Europe for two seasons and with the New Orleans Pride in the Women's Basketball League (WBL) from 1979-81. Toby Bush, who was on Welch-Nichols' staff, will continue to work with the program as will graduate assistant Emily Klaerner. Another assistant will be added for the upcoming season.