After helping the Northwest Missouri State women’s basketball team return to the MIAA Tournament, head coach Mark Kellogg has accepted the same position at West Texas A&M University of the Lone Star Conference.

Kellogg was hired at Northwest April 10, 2012 after a successful tenure at Fort Lewis College that included a national runner-up finish during the 2009-10 season. In his one season at Northwest, Kellogg guided the Bearcats to a 15-13 overall record and advanced to the second round of the MIAA Tournament.

“We are disappointed to lose Mark after only one year. However, when the opportunity comes to return home and be closer to family we certainly wish him, Trisha and their family the best,” said Director of Athletics Mel Tjeerdsma. “We will move quickly to secure a high quality replacement who will build on the momentum of this past season. Our goal is to have a team of outstanding young women who will take our program to the top of the MIAA and reach national prominence.”

The Richardson, Texas native replaced Gene Steinmeyer who retired after the 2011-12 campaign. Steinmeyer stepped down after 13 seasons at Northwest.

A national search for Kellogg’s replacement will begin immediately.

— NWMSU Sports Information —