Wheeling's Wiegel leaves coaching for new challenge

Wheeling girls basketball coach Shelly Wiegel, who has run one of the most successful area programs the past six years, is resigning from her position.

"The decision was a tough one for me," said Wiegel, who is leaving the post to start a family.

After taking over the program in 2004, Wiegel has complied a 163-28 record with four regional titles, one sectional and one supersectional.

The Wildcats also won their first conference title in school history in girls basketball in 2008 and then became only the third Mid-Suburban League team to win three in a row.

Wiegel has been coaching and teaching for 16 years; she's been part of the math department at Wheeling for the last seven years.

She is in the process of adopting twin daughters.

"The process will be completed at the end of March," Wiegel said. "It's been a truly amazing six years for me. I have truly been blessed with the talented kids, supportive parents, and incredible Wheeling community which has backed our program."

While she is sad to be stepping down, Wiegel feels fortunate to have been so lucky at Wheeling.

"I am thankful for everything," she said. "I am proud of what we have done over the past six years.

"I will miss those loud gyms on Friday nights with our spirited students cheering for our team. I want to thank the students, parents, staff at Wheeling High School and the members of our community who supported our program."

In her six seasons, Wiegel coached 20 all conference athletes, 20 all-area athletes and 10 players who are continuing to play at the college level, including four Division I athletes.

Six Wildcats reached the 1,000 point mark during her tenure, including Ashley Wilson, who also went over the 1,000 mark in career rebounds.

"I credit the players' accomplishments to their work ethic, family support and commitment to the game in the off-season," Wiegel said.

Wheeling had never won 20 games in season before Wiegel took over; the Wildcats compiled six consecutive 20-win seasons under her guidance. The 33-2 record in 2008-2009 was the most successful girls season in school history.

Wiegel has not ruled out coaching in the future.

She has experience in track and cross country as an assistant coach, and in basketball as both a head coach and assistant coach.

"I am so proud to be a Wildcat," Wiegel said. "I will miss coaching but I look forward to my new adventures as a parent."