Wyckoff steps in while Semrau takes single-season leave of absence

By Stephen Stone
Seminoles.com

Florida State women’s basketball head coach Sue Semrau announced that she is taking a leave of absence through March 2021 to support her family as her mom recovers from ovarian cancer in her hometown of Seattle, Wash.

 Semrau, who has led the FSU program for 23 years, made the announcement recently.

 “For the past several months I’ve found it increasingly difficult to commute back and forth due to the tedious and ever-changing restrictions due to COVID-19,” Semrau wrote in a letter to the Seminole Family. “I’ve prayerfully wrestled with how I can meet my family’s needs and continue to lead our team. In these uncertain times, I haven’t found an answer that works for everyone, but I always preach that family comes first.

“For this reason, I’ve decided to step away from the day-to-day coaching through March 2021. I will also forfeit my salary so it can be used to offset COVID-19-related budget cuts. This decision allows me to support my family while providing much needed resources for Seminole Athletics.” 

Current associate head coach Brooke Wyckoff will serve as interim head coach during Semrau’s leave. Wyckoff is an FSU Alumna, a 10-year Seminole assistant coach, and associate head coach since May 1, 2018. 

Wyckoff has been involved in every aspect of the FSU basketball program and is currently the offensive coordinator after stints as both defensive coordinator and recruiting coordinator.

“She has been a stellar assistant for 10 years, is an FSU Alumna and truly understands the heartbeat of our program,” Semrau said about Wyckoff. “I am confident in her and our staff. I believe she will maintain the high level of excellence this season that we’ve come to expect at FSU.”

As part of her leave agreement, Semrau requested – and FSU Director of Athletics David Coburn agreed – that her forfeited salary will remain with the program to help offset COVID-19 budget cuts that will affect the entire athletic department.

“Sue Semrau is one of the finest coaches in the country, and we completely support the decision she has made,” said Coburn. “We are given a great responsibility in intercollegiate athletics to nurture the growth of our student-athletes not only in their athletic careers, but in their academic endeavors and personal life. Our coaches constantly talk to our student-athletes about properly aligning their personal priorities, and Sue is giving all Seminoles the ultimate example of what that means.”

Semrau expressed gratitude for the opportunity to take a leave of absence.

“I want to express my appreciation to FSU and David Coburn for understanding and accommodating this personal request,” said Semrau. “I am also thankful and blessed by the attitude of our players and staff. Many coaches talk of their team as a family; ours proves it and I’m very grateful.”

Semrau’s return is scheduled next April, following the conclusion of the 2021 NCAA women’s basketball tournament.