Marla Looper resigns as Iowa softball coach

IOWA CITY — Iowa softball coach Marla Looper has resigned after eight seasons, athletics director Gary Barta announced Wednesday.

Looper had a 172-247-1 record at Iowa, including 21-32 this past season.

'We appreciate all of Marla's contributions the past eight years,' Barta said in a release. 'Marla has served Iowa and her student-athletes well and we wish her all the best in her future endeavors.'

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Looper's contract was set to expire this summer.

'I have been fortunate to work with some amazing young women throughout my eight years,' Looper said in the release. 'They have excelled on the field, and in the classroom and community. I am thankful for the opportunity I have had to serve at Iowa and lead the women's softball program.'

Deputy athletics director Barbara Burke will head a national search for a new coach.