February 1, 1999
GREENVILLE, S.C. -- Furman women's soccer assistant coach Debbie Hensley was announced as the first women's soccer head coach in Western Carolina history on Saturday.
Hensley, a former standout soccer and softball player at Georgia Southern, served as Brian Lee's assistant from 1996-1998, while completing her graduate degree in health and exercise science. She helped guide the Lady Paladins to a 33-24-5 combined record and a 15-7-1 SoCon mark. A former striker herself, Hensley's primary role at Furman was as developing strikers and goalkeepers along with extensive recruiting and administration duties.
"Debbie will be sorely missed," said Furman head coach Brian Lee. "She has meant so much to this program, to the players, and to myself. She will do an exceptional job at Western Carolina, as she has a firm grasp on all aspects of the coaching profession. I wish her the best of luck and welcome Western Carolina women's soccer to the Southern Conference."
Furman tentatively plans to open the 1999 season in Cullowhee, N.C. on August 28 against Hensley and the Lady Catamounts.
"I am very honored that the (Western Carolina) administration chose me to lead this new team," said Hensley upon her appointment. "I was impressed with the university's commitment in starting this new team and I am really looking forward to the challenge of building a squad from the ground up."