Henderson’s 24th and final season comes to an end

EWING >> Earlier this week after practice had ended and all the players filed out, Dawn Henderson sat in the bleachers and tried to reflect on her 24 years coaching at The College of New Jersey.

“As I sat there and looked at the banners it made me realize how fortunate I’ve been,” said Henderson. “The Final Four banner and the championship banners bring back a lot of memories. But, what you remember the most are the kids and the interaction.”

Henderson was honored before her final game on Wednesday night by the administration and her fellow coaches at TCNJ.

“This is my final home game, forever,” said Henderson trying to keep her emotions in check. “Interestingly, in all the years here and through all the ups and downs I always felt I was in the exact right place. As far as retiring, I know I’m doing the exact right thing at the right time.”

Henderson’s long career ended after the Lions were eliminated from NJAC playoff contention in a 52-28 setback against Rutgers-Newark at Packer Hall.

Henderson finished her 24year career with the Lions with 436 wins, the most in school history. Her overall coaching record after 28 years is 482254.

After scoring the first two points of the game, the Lions (11-13, 8-10 NJAC) never led again.

The Scarlet Raiders (10-15, 8-10 NJAC) were led by Maria Simmons with 20 points and Faith Ashby tallied 14.

Chiara Palombi paced the Lions with 17 points and Nikki Schott got eight.

“You can’t do something for 28 years and not feel it when it is done,” said Henderson, through the tears. “Sure, it’s a tough way to go out. But, a lot of life has happened in 24 years. There have been a lot of high’s and low’s. It has been an honor and a privilege to coach this team.”

During her tenure, the Lions reached the pinnacle of basketball, making the Division III Final Four in 2009.

She amassed nine total NCAA appearances and four NJAC titles.

“Making it to the Final Four is like a dream come true,” said Henderson. “But, it’s really the little accomplishments. It’s been great to watch these kids grow.”

Throughout the season, former players and assistant coaches have stopped by Packer Hall to pay tribute to the their coach, mentor and friend.

One of the TCNJ’s greatest, Hillary Klimowicz, a two-time Player of the Year and star of the Final Four team, attended the game as did NJAC commissioner Terry Small.

“There are so many great memories,” Henderson said.