Murphy diagnosed
with leukemia

Anderson will replace her
as Wahine coach

Star-Bulletin staff

Debbie Murphy, recently hired as assistant women's volleyball coach at the University of Hawaii, has been diagnosed with leukemia and will not fill the position this fall.

"We here at the university wish only the best for Debbie and (her husband), Ken, during this trying time," said head coach Dave Shoji. "Our prayers are with both of them."

Murphy had been an assistant with the Colorado State staff for the past two seasons, which the Rams went 44-22 and made it to the NCAA tournament both years.

Kari Anderson, a former Wahine setter, will replace Murphy and take on the role as the new assistant coach.

Anderson played under Shoji from 1991 to 1994 and ranks fourth on the all-time UH list in total assists (2,385) and assists per game (10.51). Following her collegiate career, she stayed on in 1995 as a student coach.

"I have mixed emotions right now," said Anderson. "I am very excited about getting the opportunity to coach at UH, but I only hope the best for Debbie Murphy and her family. I know this will be a huge challenge."