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BLACKSBURG, VA. -- The Virginia Tech Athletics Department has announced that Jolene and Aaron Shepardson have resigned as assistant volleyball coaches, effective March 5, 2011, in order to pursue higher coaching opportunities.

Jolene has accepted the position of interim head volleyball coach at California State University, Bakersfield, and Aaron will join her as the interim associate head coach. The Roadrunners just completed their first season as a full NCAA Division I member institution, and the Shepardsons will be there to help guide the team through this difficult transition. The pair was in Blacksburg for just one season, after coaching stints at American University and Winthrop University, among others.

“We would like to thank the Shepardsons for their service to Virginia Tech,” said head coach Chris Riley. “Though their stay in Blacksburg was short, they have made a lasting impression on this program and were a big part of the most successful team to ever play at Tech. The opportunity was one they couldn’t pass up and we wish them the best of luck and they will always be Hokies!!”

“We have been greatly blessed by the opportunity to be a part of the Hokie Volleyball family this past year,” Aaron Shepardson said. “While we are excited for our new positions at Cal State Bakersfield, we will greatly miss the relationships formed with Chris, [assistant coach] Shelby[lynn McBride] and the players and regret that we won't be a part of the increasing success that Virginia Tech Volleyball will enjoy.

“Although our time here has been short, it has been rich with growth both professionally and on a personal level. We are thankful to Coach Riley for his support and friendship through this process.”

Jolene is a 2002 graduate from the University of South Florida, where she helped the Bulls to a Conference USA championship and a trip to the second round of the NCAA Tournament. Aaron graduated from Baylor in 1998 and was a member of the USA Men’s National Volleyball team in 2000-2001. He also played professionally in Indonesia and Belgium in 2003. Both Shepardsons earned bachelor’s degrees in psychology.

For updates on Virginia Tech volleyball, follow the Hokies on Twitter (@VT_VBall).