Former Assistant Accepts Position Following Interim Posting

SALEM, Va. --- Paul Russo has been appointed to serve as Emory & Henry College's head basketball coach on a permanent basis after serving since November as the interim head coach.

An assistant basketball coach at Emory & Henry since 2005, Russo stepped in as the interim head coach shortly after Athletic Director Bob Johnson announced in October his decision to relinquish the head basketball coaching duties.

Russo, a 2002 E&H graduate, was a three-year starting point guard for Johnson's Wasps. He led the Old Dominion Athletic Conference and ranked fifth nationally in assists during his senior year. He scored 706 points in his three seasons with the Wasps and ranks fourth all-time on the College's assist list with 406 during his career.

Russo recently received his master's degree in higher education administration from Nichols State University while serving as assistant men's basketball coach for two seasons. He served as an assistant coach for Emory & Henry for three seasons.

Johnson praised Russo for his coaching and leadership skills. "Paul knows what it takes to succeed at Emory & Henry," Johnson said. "And by succeeding I mean recruiting quality people, seeing them through graduation and winning games."

E&H President Rosalind Reichard also voiced confidence in Russo. "During his time as interim coach, Paul has demonstrated a strong appreciation for what we value here in our athletic programs -- an emphasis on character and a commitment to giving your best, both on the court and in the classroom," the president said.

This release is courtesy of the Emory & Henry College sports information department.