July 1, 2008

DEKALB, Ill.-Northern Illinois University women's basketball head coach Carol Owens announces the hiring of Heather Oesterle as the new assistant women's basketball coach today.

"I'm just really excited about Heather joining us," Owens said. "I think she's going to help us in a number of ways, especially in recruiting, camps and player development. I've known her throughout the years and really appreciate her professionalism. Overall she's a great addition to our program."

Oesterle comes to Northern Illinois after spending the past five seasons at MAC East foe Miami (OH). She joined the RedHawks' staff during Miami's MAC Championship season of 2003-04. While with Miami, Oesterle worked with the RedHawks' post players and coordinated the team's travel.

Oesterle began her coaching career at Stanford in 2002-03 as a volunteer assistant. She joined the Cardinal after graduating from Michigan in 2002. She was a four-year letterwinner at forward for the Wolverines from 1998-2002. During her four years in Ann Arbor, the Wolverines posted a 76-45 record and made two NCAA appearances. She was named team captain her senior season and also earned the team's Leadership Award following her senior season.