NORTHFIELD, Minn. - Ruthie Neuger has announced she will retire from her head softball duties at St. Olaf and will pursue other career opportunities.

Neuger spent 12 seasons as the Oles' head coach, amassing 166 wins. She was named the MIAC's coach of the year in 2010 after her team won 14 league games and finished fourth. The 2013 team reached the semifinal round of the MIAC playoffs. 

Neuger had been splitting time between St. Olaf and Engage Print, Inc., in Northfield. With the head softball position expanding to full-time in 2016-17, Neuger elected to pursue her career at Engage. 

"I"m excited about my new opportunity, but I've loved my time here. I will always be an Ole," she said.

Neuger was a three-sport standout in volleyball, basketball and softball at St. Olaf. She was inducted to the St. Olaf Athletic Hall of Fame in 1999. 

"We thank Ruthie for all she has done for St. Olaf softball. She embodies everything St. Olaf Athletics represents," athletic director Ryan Bowles said. "She worked tirelessly for our program, student-athletes and laid the foundation for a successful future."

A national search for Neuger's replacement will begin immediately.