NEW ROCHELLE, NY - Iona College men's basketball assistant coach Vin Parise has elected to leave his current role in order to a pursue a career in the private sector, it was announced today.

"The experiences at Iona have been some of the best in my life," said Parise. "The ability to work for my alma mater and two excellent head coaches is something that I will always remember. I will remain a Gael for life as I move toward my future career goals."

"To say that Vin will be missed is a tremendous understatement," said head coach Kevin Willard. "His value as both a mentor to our student-athletes and to the Iona community as a representative of his alma mater is immeasurable. I wish him the best of luck in his future endeavors."

Parise completed his fourth season as an assistant with the Gaels in 2007-08 and first under coach Willard. In 2005-06 - his second season on the staff - Iona earned its conference record seventh MAAC Championship and advanced to the NCAA Championship First Round. The Maroon & Gold took on eventual Final Four participant LSU in Jacksonville, FL.

Coach Willard along with assistants Shaheen Holloway and Dan McHale will embark on a national search for a replacement immediately.