NEW YORK, – Oct. 10, 2004 – Niagara University athletics director Mike Hermann announced Monday that golf coach Ryan Higgins has resigned effective at the end of the fall season.

Higgins, who was in his fourth season as the Purple Eagles’ mentor, resigned his duties to devote more time to his full-time profession as a golf professional at the Niagara Falls Country Club.

"Ryan elevated Niagara’s golf program through his expertise and personal commitment," Hermann said. "Our golf program has continued to be among the best in the MAAC even as the level of golf within the league has improved. We’ll miss his contributions but wish him the best in his future as a golf professional."

In his three previous years, Higgins guided the Purple Eagles to two top three finishes in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Championship and to three titles, including two Little Three titles. This fall, the Lewiston native helped Niagara to a pair of top five finishes, including fourth place at the Crowne Plaza Colonial Classic in Moon Township, Pa., Oct. 11-12.

Niagara will begin an immediate search for a golf coach.