"For the past 10 years it has been my goal to become an athletic administrator, and I was given the opportunity when Greg Wallace became director of athletics and recreation last summer," said Hamilton, who is serving as an assistant athletic director at the College. "With the added responsibility of that job, plus serving as men's and women's tennis coach, I felt the basketball program would be best served by someone who could focus more on those particular duties."

Hamilton's final home game will be Feb. 20 when Knox College visits Darby Gymnasium. The Pioneers close out the season three days later at Illinois College.

Hamilton took over the basketball program in 2002 after serving as a long-time assistant coach for football, men's basketball and women's basketball. Under his guidance, Grinnell compiled a 16-8 mark in 2003-04 and qualified for the four-team Midwest Conference Tournament. That season marked Grinnell's first winning season since 1992-93. As an assistant, he helped establish a program that posted its first winning season in school history and won the MWC South Division title in 1989-90. The Pioneers finished second in the league tournament that season.

"I'm pleased with the infrastructure we've established in rebuilding the program during my time as coach," said Hamilton. "Now I'm hopeful Grinnell will keep building and be able to play at a championship level. Fortunately I'll be here to help with the transition to a new coach. I can help cover the gap in recruiting so that our program can continue its rise."

"Andy has provided our women's basketball program with great leadership and coaching," said Wallace. "He has positioned the team for the future with a strong freshman class and a solid group of returning players."