After earning yet another perfect season and national championship to her name on November 20, UNC Field Hockey’s Karen Shelton is going out on top.

The program’s head coach announced Wednesday she plans to retire from the sport after UNC conducts a national search for her replacement. After tallying the 10 national titles and becoming the winningest coach in field hockey history with the Tar Heels, Shelton will step aside at — in her own words — “the right time.” She remains the only head coach in UNC Field Hockey history, with the team’s renovated stadium dedicated in her honor.

With the retirement announcement, many people took to social media to congratulate the legendary coach. UNC Chancellor Kevin Guskiewicz and Carolina Athletics Director Bubba Cunningham each thanked Shelton for her 42 years leading the field hockey team and numerous student-athletes.

Another major change for Carolina next season: star forward Erin Matson, who exhausted her eligibility on her way to winning four national titles, will no longer suit up for the Tar Heels. Matson took to Twitter to share her thoughts on the departing head coach.

Additionally, hundreds of Carolina Athletics community members and Tar Heel fans shared their gratitude, congratulations and farewells with Shelton throughout Wednesday afternoon.

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