Iona women's head basketball coach Anthony Bozzella has announced the promotion of Christi Abbate to associate head coach and Mandy Myers to first assistant, as well as the addition of Jessica De Palo to the coaching staff.

Abbate, who will be entering her fifth season with the Gaels and tenth as a member of Bozzella's staff, will now serve as associate head coach. She will continue her role as defensive coordinator for Iona.

"This promotion is certainly long overdue for Christi," stated Bozzella. "I feel she is one of the brightest coaches that I have ever encountered in my 14 years as a head coach."

Myers, who will be in her fifth season on Bozzella's staff after playing two years under him at Long Island, will become the first assistant and recruiting coordinator. She will remain the offensive coordinator for the Gaels.

"Mandy is clearly deserving of this promotion," said Bozzella. "Our recruiting continues to get better each year as a direct result of her hard work and organization."

"I cannot express my gratitude enough for the loyalty and dedication Christi and Mandy have shown to my programs throughout the years."

De Palo comes to Iona from Lehigh University, where she spent one year as a graduate assistant after a standout career on the court for the Mountain Hawks. She is the school's fourth all-time leading scorer with 1,466 points and fifth all-time leading rebounder with 639. A native of Rumson, NJ, De Palo was named Patriot League Player of the Year as a senior after averaging 18.5 points per game.

After graduating from Lehigh in 2005, De Palo took charge of film exchange and the academic support program on the staff of her alma mater. She also served as the administrative assistant. "I'm very excited that Jess has joined my staff," said Bozzella. "She has great credibility having been a top player, and her energy and enthusiasm will be a welcome addition to the program."

Iona finished the 2005-06 season at 17-12 overall and 13-5 in the MAAC.