FAIRFAX, Va. – George Mason University Assistant Vice President, Director of Athletics Brad Edwards today announced that women's volleyball head coach Aylene Ilkson has resigned from her position. 

Ilkson, who has served as head coach for the past five seasons, has stepped down to accept another opportunity.

"My time at Mason has been shaped by the wonderful relationships I have made with my players, alumni, colleagues and staff," said Ilkson. "As excited as I am about my new opportunity, I will carry a piece of Mason Nation with me always. It has been so much fun these last couple years, and I am grateful to have been given the opportunity to work with some amazing athletes whom I will miss greatly." 

"I would like to express my gratitude for the commitment and dedication Aylene provided as our head coach for the past five years," said Edwards. "Under Aylene's leadership, our student-athletes thrived academically and represented George Mason in a first-class manner. We wish her the very best."

The Patriots earned the AVCA Team Academic Award for five consecutive years under Ilkson, and received the President's Cup for the highest team GPA at the 2022 Green & Gold Celebration. 

Ilkson compiled a record of 26-90 at the helm of the Patriots. 

A national search for the next Patriots head coach will begin immediately.