By Dana Becker

becker_d@iccc.cc.ia.us

After nearly 40 combined years with Iowa Central, Rick Sandquist is stepping away.

Sandquist announced his retirement from coaching the Triton softball program. 

"It's time," Sandquist said. "I'll be honest, this is the hardest thing I've had to do. To tell the administration, the coaches and especially the players - both the returning ones and the incoming ones - this is tough."

Iowa Central athletic director Kevin Twait confirmed a search to find a replacement would begin immediately.

"Coach Sandquist has done a fantastic job over the course of his incredible career," said Twait, who replaced Sandquist as athletic director two years ago. "He has set a high standard in terms of coaching excellence."

Sandquist served as athletic director for eight years before focusing on the softball program. He also had a run as softball coach before stepping away, and previously coached the Triton baseball team for several seasons. 

In his 10 years as head softball coach, Sandquist won almost 400 games including a berth in the 2009 NJCAA National Tournament. As baseball coach, Iowa Central won 390 games under his guidance and finished as NJCAA National Tournament runners-up in 2000.

"I'll get the chance to spend more time with my family," Sandquist said. "It's hard with us being in separate cities, so this will work a lot better. I've got quite a bit still on my plate to keep me busy, but I'll always be there to help Iowa Central."

Sandquist and his wife, Annette, have four children and six grandchildren.