TUCSON, Ariz. -- Arizona head coach Eric Hansen has stepped down from his position, director of athletics Greg Byrne announced on Monday. Hansen served as head coach of both the men’s and women’s programs for two and a half seasons (2011-13) and as an assistant for three seasons (1996-99).

“I have decided to resign my position as head swimming and diving coach at Arizona,” Hansen stated. “After taking a leave from the program in October, I came to the decision that it would be best for me to step down and pursue other interests. I want to thank athletics director Greg Byrne and the current athletic administration for the opportunity I was given.”

“I want to thank Eric for serving as Arizona’s head swimming and diving coach,” Byrne said. “Although Eric will no longer serve as head coach, he remains very supportive of Arizona swimming and diving, and we thank him for his service to the program. Associate head coach Rick Demont will serve as interim head coach until a new head coach is named. We plan to open the position and conduct a national search. I’m confident we will find an excellent head coach to lead our swimming and diving program.”