IMMACULATA, Pa.- Paul Murphy, Immaculata University Director of Athletics and Recreation announced the hiring of Brittany Whalen as Head Women's Basketball Coach and Coordinator of Athletic Marketing and Communications.

Whalen is no stranger to Immaculata, and the athletic department having graduated from Immaculata in 2015 and was a four-year member of the women's basketball and softball teams. Following graduation, she returned to her alma mater as an assistant coach for the Immaculata women's basketball team from 2015 through 2018.

"I am thrilled that Brittany has come back to Immaculata University to lead our storied women's basketball program," said Murphy. "Her work ethic and basketball acumen, as both a player and assistant coach of the Mighty Macs, has prepared her well for this step and we are excited for her arrival to campus."

"I would like to thank President Lettiere, Patty Canterino, Paul Murphy, and the athletic department for the opportunity to lead the women's basketball program," said Whalen. "As a former student-athlete and assistant coach of the program, Immaculata Women's Basketball has been an integral part of my life for many years. I am thrilled about this opportunity and am looking forward to instilling basketball and life skills into the lives of these incredible young women. I hope to carry on familiar traditions that our past teams have developed and foster a community of support surrounding Immaculata University. Go Macs!"

During her time as a player with the Immaculata women's basketball team, Whalen (Merkle) started in 56 games and scored 660 points while grabbing 575 rebounds. She added 66 steals, 59 blocked shots, and 73 assists during her career. She was a Second Team All-Conference selection in 2014-15 and helped lead the Mighty Macs to the CSAC Championship game in her final two seasons.

In her three years as an Assistant Coach, Whalen (Merkle) helped mentor the women's basketball team to improve skills on the court, in the classroom, and for life experiences. Was responsible for scouting and player recruitment, and review of game films.

The Aldan, PA, native earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise Science, Pre-Occupational Therapy from Immaculata in 2015, and earned an Associate of Science in Occupational Therapy Assistant from Harcum College in 2018.