Rhine steps down as Immaculata women’s basketball coach

After eight seasons at the helm of the Immaculata University women’s basketball program, Chrissy Rhine (Esbensen) has stepped down as head coach of the Mighty Macs.

Rhine steps down with the fourth most wins in program history with 77 career wins. In eight seasons Rhine led the Macs to the Conference semifinals on three occasions. In 2021-22 Rhine led the Mighty Macs to an overall record of 189, 8-4 in Atlantic East Conference play and the program’s first Atlantic East Conference Championship and first appearance in the NCAA Tournament.

“Immaculata women’s basketball will always be a part of me,” stated Rhine. “Being a player, assistant coach and head coach for the same team has been a unique and rewarding experience. I cannot say enough positive things about the University and the women’s basketball program.”

As head coach, Rhine mentored six all conference first-team selections, and four all-conference second-team selections. Rhine mentored current assistant coach Theresa Kearney, the program’s second all-time leading scorer who was also named third team all-region for her 2021-22 season.

Rhine was promoted to the head coaching position in 2015 following a two-year stint as assistant coach under former coach Patty Canterino. Rhine has been instrumental in the success of the Mighty Macs program as both a player and a coach.

As a player Rhine was a four-year starter on the Mighty Macs, starting in 104 of 105 games during her career and helping Immaculata reach the CSAC Championship game in 2011.

Rhine currently ranks fourth all time in career points with 1,276, and fifth in assists with 442. She was named second team all-conference in 2011, 2012 and 2013 and was the CSAC Rookie of the Year in 2010.

“Thank you to my coaching staff(s), current players and alumni for the dedication you have given to the women’s basketball program,” said Rhine. “Thank you to Patty Canterino for giving me the opportunity to coach and mentor such amazing women and to the Athletic Department and the Executive Administration for your continued support.

“The encouragement and support that the campus community provides at Immaculata is tremendous. I will always cherish the amazing memories I made with my teammates, players and coaches.”

While stepping down from coaching, Rhine will remain in her full-time position with Immaculata University as Executive Director of Admissions.

A national search will take place to name Rhine’s successor.