Hetzke ends playing career with Siena, will stay on as student coach

LOUDONVILLE — Siena College declared rising women’s basketball senior Margot Hetzke a “medical exception,” this week, a result of injuries sustained during her sophomore and junior seasons with the Saints.

While the Penfield, New York native has played her final minutes on the hardwood, she will remain with the team as a student assistant coach.

“My body has been through alot these past few years between concussions and hip injuries, and my coaches, teammates and the athletic training staff have all helped me understand that it’s in my best interest to protect my health,” Hetzke said in a statement. “Although I may not be able to play anymore, I am looking forward to being able to support the team through bringing energy and enthusiasm from the bench. I’m looking forward to this new opportunity, and assisting in any way I can to help bring this team a championship.”

During her freshmen year, 2013-2015, Hetzke was named unanimously named Metro Atlantic Athletics Conference (MAAC) Rookie of the Year, finishing ninth in league scoring (12.7) and fourth in rebounding (7.4).

“This process has been a difficult one for Margot,” said Siena head coach Ali Jaques. “Margot is one of the most competitive players that I’ve ever had the opportunity to coach. I’m grateful that we’ve developed a player/coach relationship that I know will last a long time. It is unfortunate for any athlete to not be able to choose how their career ends. In typical Margot fashion, she is choosing to find the silver lining, and I think that is a great example for our players to witness.”