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What They are Saying about Penny Dean, Part 3
June 27, 2014 | Women's Tennis
BGSU's legendary tennis coach has touched the lives of many
After 24 seasons at the helm of the Bowling Green State University tennis team, Penny Dean has announced her retirement. Her last day will be June 30. Over nearly a quarter century at the helm of the Falcons, Dean touched the lives of many people. In this, the third of three installments, some of those people pass along their best wishes and share some stories about her time at BG...LINKS
DEAN PHOTO GALLERY (thanks to those who sent photos to add to the gallery)
Dean Retirement Party Photo Gallery
What They are Saying About Dean (Wed., June 25)
What They are Saying About Dean (Thu., June 26)
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"Penny, Best of luck with retirement! It was an honor and a pleasure to work directly with you these past couple of seasons."
Dan Fischer, BGSU Assistant Athletic Trainer
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"I am very grateful for the opportunity Penny gave me to play tennis for BGSU. Not only was Penny a fantastic coach and friend but I also considered her a mom away from home. I really appreciate all the support Penny gave me. Like every family we experienced highs and lows, but as a team we were able to overcome them all and work together to meet our goals. From fun spring break trips, to heartbreaking losses, and big tournament wins, Penny always was there to support us and encourage us to not only strive as female athletes but students as well. Being a part of the BGSU tennis team was the best 4 years I could imagine, as I have memories that will now last a lifetime. Penny, enjoy your retirement, and as always Roll Along!"
Ashley (Jakupcin) Simon, BGSU Tennis 2003-07
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"Good luck Penny! Thanks for the best 4 years at BG. Best of luck to you in your retirement!"
Samantha Kintzel, BGSU Tennis 2006-10
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"Dearest Penny,Don't let anyone, ever, dull your sparkle.
We will treasure our memories with you always.
Congratulations on your retirement!
With Love,
Beth, Tiff, Mix, and Schwartz"
Beth Wilson, BGSU Tennis 1996-2000; Tiffany LaSusa, BGSU Tennis 1995-99; Erika Mix, BGSU Tennis 1996-99; Jenny Schwartz, BGSU Tennis 1993-97
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"Penny has been a wonderful coach, mentor, and friend. As a player of hers, I loved her attitude and the way she made things (like practice) fun. As a friend I value her listening skills and wonderful advice (which I seek often)! As an "employee" she has taught me so much. She is smart, funny, and probably one of the most caring people I have ever met. I know she will be missed on the court but I am excited for her to go on many adventures in the next stage of her life!
"I will never forget the time we left Cornell University and drive two hours in the wrong direction! Someone said "Penny, why does that sign say New York City?" We ate breakfast and lunch at the same restaurant."
Cindy (Mikolajewski) Yonker, BGSU Tennis 1993-97 / BGSU Assistant Coach 2009-Present
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"Penny Dean will be greatly missed in the east side of the stadium. Penny was a tremendous colleague and I am so pleased to now be able to call her my friend. Thank you Penny for all that you have done for myself and my staff during our time together!"
Shannon Salsburg, BGSU Softball Coach
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a MAC Championships contest in Oxford, Ohio, in April of 2014
Kathy Geisbuhler, BGSU Counseling Center
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"Penny Dean is a fantastic coach and even a better person. I will cherish the memories she created, not just by her success on the court or by the tremendous student-athletes she coached, but for being a true BGSU Falcon. Going back to the days when my office was on the stadium east and just a few doors down, Penny would make me smile every day. I wish her well in retirement! Roll Along Penny!"
Jim Elsasser, BGSU Associate AD for Internal Affairs
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"Where to even start?! Penny is one of the greatest women and best coaches I have ever been around. She is a selfless member of our athletic department, a 'constant' on the coaching staff, and friend to so many people regardless of whether they have just met her or have known her for decades. She is loved and respected by countless student-athletes, alums, and coaches from all over the country (and not just in the sport of tennis).
"Her continued success for 24 YEARS at BGSU is a testament to her commitment of doing things the right way, effectively implementing her philosophy and expertise, and selflessly pouring into the lives of her student-athletes day after day, season after season. Thank you so much for all that you have done and will continue to do for BGSU. Thank you for modeling the way for women in sports your entire career!! As a wife, mother, coach, mentor, and friend you have shown clearly and contagiously your passion, commitment, selflessness, and heart for life and most of all the people in it!"
"I know you don't love the mushy stuff. But truth be told, you are my trusted colleague, long time mentor, and one for my dearest friends. I will miss you very much around the office, but I look forward to the next chapter for you and know we have tons of new adventures ahead! Congratulations on your retirement."
Stephanie Young, BGSU Women's Golf Coach
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"What an experience you gave me that I will never forget, along with a lasting friendship with you! Good luck in your retirement. I know you will take full advantage of this time like you do with everything in life!"
Love and best wishes,
Natalie (Fate) Pendell, BGSU Assistant Tennis Coach, 1996-98
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"Congratulations to my favorite coach, Penny Dean on her retirement! Thank you for teaching me to believe in myself and for giving me the best four years of my life! BG won't be the same without you!"
Jenna Nussbaum, BGSU Tennis 2004-08
Thanks, Coach Dean, for 24 great years at the helm of the Falcons - Roll Along!
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