For the first time since inception in 1993, the NIU women’s soccer team is without a head coach.

The only coach in the team’s history, Frank Horvat, announced his resignation Monday, ending his 12-year tenure effective immediately.

“It’s time for the program to take a new direction,” said Horvat in a press release. “Am I going to miss this job? You bet. I can only wish them the best as NIU ushers in a new era of women’s soccer.”

He will be reassigned within NIU athletics for the duration of his contract, which is up June 30.

Horvat follows women’s basketball coach Carol Hammerle as the second NIU coach to resign under Athletics Director Jim Phillips, who was hired last August.

Horvat led the Huskies to a 6-7-5 record last season, which was a marked improvement over their 3-15-1 record in 2003.

However, Horvat finished his career with a record of 87-131-11 and a winning percentage of .404.

Phillips, who was on a trip to the Final Four, was not able to be reached, but praised Horvat’s services through a press release.

“We truly appreciate Frank Horvat’s dedication and service to Northern Illinois Intercollegiate Athletics,” Phillips said. “He was a pioneer here in women’s soccer and has certainly been a major contributor to the sport for many years.”

NIU Assistant Athletics Director Stacy Allie, who oversees women’s soccer, was unwilling to comment on Horvat’s resignation.

Huskie players were also told not to comment.

Phillips indicated the search for a new coach would begin immediately.

Until a new coach is hired, assistant coach Pete Pososki will take over day-to-day operations of the team.