RALEIGH, N.C. -- John Candler resigned as North Carolina State's diving coach after an investigation turned up his 1966 conviction on a sex charge involving a 12-year-old girl.

The university said Wednesday that Candler will remain with the athletic department in an administrative capacity until he retires on March 31.

An investigation into Candler's past was triggered by an e-mail message sent Nov. 19 to Chancellor Marye Anne Fox's office by Jane Schneider, 53, of East Lansing, Mich.

According to circuit court records from Washtenaw County, Mich., Candler pleaded guilty in 1966 to indecent liberties with a 12-year-old girl. He served five years of probation.

Calls to Schneider, who said she knew the victim in the case, and Candler weren't immediately returned Wednesday night.

Candler told WRAL-TV in Raleigh that the university knew about the case in Michigan when he was hired.

"I would prefer not to resign, but the discomfort that's been caused to my wife, my family, my children and grandchildren, I just don't think it's fair," Candler said.

Candler said he will continue to run a swim club he operates in Raleigh.

Calls to Schneider and Candler by The Associated Press weren't returned Wednesday.

In 1985, Candler was charged with taking indecent liberties with a 15-year-old Wake County girl. According to Wake County Superior court records, Candler pleaded guilty and received a suspended sentence. He served three years of probation and was ordered to undergo therapy.

Attorney Jack Nichols hasn't denied that the Candler in the Michigan case is the same person he represents in Raleigh.

Candler coached 16 All-Americans, 49 Atlantic Coast Conference champions and one Olympian in his 36 years at N.C. State.

Swimming coach Brooks Teal will oversee the divers through this season. Candler told WRAL that the swim club he runs in Raleigh, Candler Swim Club, will remain open.