MANKATO, Minn. --- Minnesota State's Amy Sander, who has served as an assistant coach for the women's basketball team since the 2008-09 season, has been named associate head coach.

"Amy has been a key component to our program's sustained success over the past eight seasons," head coach Emilee Thiesse said.  "She was a part of the national championship team and has remained loyal and passionate about the Mavericks.  

"Her tireless efforts in the area of recruiting are vital to our program and she's one of the hardest workers I have ever been around.  It is a great privilege to promote Amy to our Associate Head Coach, but more importantly, it is a well deserved honor."  

Sander is entering her ninth season as a member of the MSU women's basketball coaching staff. During her eight previous seasons she has helped the Mavericks to an overall record on 157-79 (.665), including seven winning seasons, four NCAA Tournament appearances (2009, 2012, 2013 & 2015) and an NCAA Division II National Championship in 2009.

During her tenure, 19 Mavericks have claimed All-NSIC honors, including Heather Johnson, who has named the NSIC's Player of the Year in 2009.  

Minnesota State opens its 2016-17 regular season schedule Tuesday, Nov. 15, where it hosts Missouri Western at Taylor Center. The opening tip-off is scheduled for 6:00 p.m.