ATCHISON, Kan. - Friday afternoon, Benedictine College athletic director Charlie Gartenmayer announced that Benedictine is replacing long-time men's basketball coach, Joe Brickner.

The men's season ended in an opening round loss on Wednesday, and Brickner was notified of the change Friday morning.  

His impact on Benedictine is widespread. He attended then St. Benedict's College from 1966-70, playing on the NAIA National Championship basketball team of 1967. He also was the captain on both the '69 and '70 teams. He continued to be connected to the college for the next 40 years as a board member, faculty member in the Executive MBA program, active alumnus, recruiter and coach.

In twelve seasons at the helm, Brickner compiled an overall record of 167-207 and a conference record of 110-125. He twice led the team to national rankings, during this past season and in 2007, when the Ravens narrowly missed an at-large berth into the NAIA Div. II National Tournament after finishing in second place in the Heart of America Athletic Conference. Brickner is one of only two coaches in Benedictine basketball history to lead a team to a 20-win season. "We are extremely grateful for the time and commitment Coach Brickner has given to Benedictine College for the past 40 years. His legacy will always be remembered," stated Athletic Director Charlie Gartenmayer.

Brickner has built strong relationships with both alumni and students over the years and has helped the college reach all-time highs in both enrollment and fund raising. "I am personally thankful for Joe Brickner's integrity, work ethic and unwavering love for the college. He stepped off of the Board of Directors to take over the basketball program at a difficult time, and has brought it back to respectability," said Stephen D. Minnis, president of Benedictine College.

A national search for a new coach will begin immediately.