Jim Iams has retired as Punahou girls volleyball coach, the school announced yesterday.

In four seasons at the helm, Iams guided the Buffanblu to one Interscholastic League of Honolulu championship and three state runner-up finishes, including the past two seasons.

"I have enjoyed the four years and would like to thank the Punahou community, especially the parents and the kids, for this opportunity to coach," Iams said through a school press release.

Punahou plans to post an announcement about the opening within a week on the school's Web site, www.punahou.edu.

Meanwhile, Buffanblu senior setter Malia Patterson has been named a finalist for the Andi Collins Award.

Patterson helped Punahou win the ILH title, finish second in the state and was voted to The Advertiser's All-State first team.

The award recognizes the nation's top senior setter. Also a candidate is Long Beach Poly's Mita Uiato, who has signed a letter of intent with Hawai'i.