The women's basketball program was started by Coach Richard Panella in the fall of 1987, in what would be the first of 19 consecutive winning seasons.

 

His background includes coaching and scouting both men and women at every level from elementary school to professional. Panella is a former NBA scout, and he worked for two national scouting services.

 

His 19-year record of 447-114 (.797 winning percentage) ranks him among the top 5 of active NAIA coaches.

 

Discipline, unselfish play and team chemistry are the cornerstones of Panella's philosophy. His teams have consistently exhibited these attributes and, as a result, have achieved an outstanding success rate. Stritch has built a reputation as a quality program locally, in the Midwest and on a national level, making five national tourney appearances.

 

Panella has numerous coach of the year awards. His emphasis on academics has resulted in consistent excellence in the classroom and a high team grade point average.