Massachusetts softball coach Elaine Sortino has been diagnosed with a form of cancer, according to a press release by UMass Athletics.

Sortino informed her team of the news after its win over Boston College yesterday, according to the press release. She will continue to serve as the head coach of the Minutewomen, but associate head coach Kathryn Gleason and assistant coach Kristi Stefanoni will handle the day-to-day operations for the team.

Sortino is currently receiving treatments and Director of Athletics John McCutcheon asks that people respect her privacy during this difficult time.

“She is undergoing treatments right now and will continue to be as involved as possible with the team as our head coach,” said McCutcheon in a statement to UMass Athletics. “Her coaching staff, the athletic department and all involved with the program support her as she continues to fight this disease.”

This year marks Sortino’s 33rd year at the helm for UMass. In her tenure, she has led the Minutewomen to 22 Atlantic 10 titles, 20 NCAA regional appearances and a trio of appearances in the NCAA College World Series. Sortino has also been chosen as the A-10 Coach of the Year 10 times. She is also the Department of Athletics’ Associate Athletic Director and Senior Women’s Administrator.

“This is a trying time for both Elaine and the student-athletes of her team and we will give them the full support of the department and the University,” said McCutcheon.

Stephen Sellner can be reached at [email protected] and followed on Twitter @MDC_Sellner.