The University of the District of Columbia announced today that Jeff Ruland will not return as Head Men’s Basketball Coach. The University will begin the process to hire a new coach.

Director of Athletics, Patricia Thomas had this to say, "I am thankful to Jeff Ruland for his four years of service to the University of the District of Columbia and our Athletic Department. The entire Firebird family wishes Coach Ruland well in all his future endeavors."

Ruland coached the Firebirds to a 40-61 record in four seasons at the University of the District of Columbia, including one NCAA Division II Tournament appearance in 2011-12. The Firebirds joined the East Coast Conference (ECC) in July 2011, and they compiled a conference record of 18-16 over two seasons.

In their inaugural season in the conference in 2011-12, the Firebirds finished with a 22-6 record (13-3 in ECC play) and were ranked as high as 18th in the country in Division II. The Firebirds were seeded 2nd heading into the East Coast Conference tournament, but they were defeated in the semifinals by 3rd seeded Bridgeport University 65-76. The Firebirds advanced to the NCAA Tournament for the first time in 25 years but were defeated in the first round by Stonehill College 65-61.

Ruland’s first year at the helm in 2009-10 resulted in a 1-20 record. In 2010-11, their final year with no conference affiliation, the team showed marked improvement posting an 11-15 record. This year in 2012-13, the Firebirds regressed, struggling through most of the season with a 6-20 record (5-13 in ECC play).

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