CASTLETON, Vt. – Head Coach Kathleen Payne of the Vermont State University Castleton women's basketball team announced her resignation from the program, effective June 5, to pursue an opportunity that will allow her to be closer to family. 

Payne departs Castleton after three seasons at the helm of the Spartans' program. During her tenure, she compiled a 24-51 overall record while leading the team through a period of growth and development within the highly competitive Little East Conference. 

In her first season leading the program in 2023-24, Payne guided the Spartans to a 10-15 overall record and a 4-12 mark in conference play, narrowly missing qualification for the Little East Conference (LEC) Tournament. 

Among the highlights of Payne's tenure were the development of two LEC All-Conference selections, two first-year players who earned LEC Rookie of the Week honors, and eight student-athletes named to the LEC All-Academic Team. 

"I will always cherish the opportunity I had to coach these young women, who not only made me a better coach but a better person, and that truly was a gift," related Payne. "I am thankful for my time at Castleton." 

Vermont State University Castleton will prioritize the identification of a new head coach for the women's basketball program.