Berkeley, CA – On November 15, following the completion of the 2010 Women’s Premier League Championships, Alex Williams announced that she will be stepping down as Head Coach of the Berkeley All Blues. Williams served as Head Coach of the All Blues from 2008-2010 and Assistant Coach from 2005-2008.

With Williams at the helm, the All Blues solidified their position as one of the top women’s clubs in the country, winning the National Championship in 2008, placing second in 2009, and third in last month’s championship.

Williams turned to coaching immediately following her retirement from playing in 2004. She began her rugby career as an freshman at Harvard. Upon her graduation in 1991, she joined Beantown before relocating to the West Coast in 2000 and playing with the All Blues for the remainder of her career. Williams was a lock and number-eight on the Women’s National Team from 1993-2004, serving as captain from 2003-04. She played in three World Cups and was capped 25 times (7th place among all women).

Following the her retirement in 2004, Williams became an assistant coach for the Women’s National Team, taking several months off for the birth of her daughter, Quinn, in 2006. She coached the Eagle forwards from 2006 to 2010, including in two World Cups. In addition, Williams coached the Pacific Coast Grizzlies from 2005-2008.

In 2008, Williams was hired as the Women’s High Performance Manager for USA Rugby. She was instrumental in creating the Women’s Premier League (WPL), which has greatly improved the level of competitive rugby in the US. Williams’ hard work continues to benefit women’s rugby, from grassroots to international play.

At all levels of her coaching, Williams brought her expertise as an international player, her passion for the game, and her eye for detail. Says All Blues President Ginna Brelsford, “Alex has the ability to help all players reach their potential, often surpassing their own expectations. This year, the All Blues' relatively inexperienced scrum was able to hold its own against top WPL teams, such as Beantown and the Valkyries, in large part thanks to Alex's technical expertise.”

Williams stepped down as coach of the All Blues primarily for family reasons, but also to be able to focus on her job as Women’s High Performance manager. She states, "I will hugely miss coaching the All-Blues but am looking forward to spending more time with my daughter. I love coaching and look forward to returning at some level when Quinn is a little older."

The All Blues wish Williams well and are beginning a search for a new Head Coach. Information about the application process can be found at www.berkeleyallblues.com.