URL: http://www.gazetteextra.com/20150522/masterson_resigns_as_parkers_boys_basketball_coach

Masterson resigns as Parker's boys basketball coach

Janesville Parker is looking for a new boys basketball coach.

Ryan Masterson resigned Friday after seven seasons as head coach.

The 46-year-old Masterson said the decision was difficult but the right one.

“It's in the best interest of my family to resign,” Masterson said. “My kids are getting older and getting more involved in multiple activities that I want to be a part of.

“I loved being a head coach, but it's really become a year-round job. I guess in the last week or so, I just decided that it was time to step down.”

Parker Athletic Director Joe Dye said the boys basketball coaching position would be posted and believes the candidate pool in finding a replacement will be strong. He also thanked Masterson for his commitment to the program.

“We can't thank out loud enough about the job that Ryan did at Parker High School,” Dye said. “His character and moral fiber set him apart.

“He's a good educator, and what sticks out the most during his time at Parker is the fact that there were a lot more marks in the left-hand column (wins) than before his tenure began.”

Masterson, a 1987 Janesville Craig graduate and current Advanced Placement History teacher at Craig, said he's not closing the door on coaching again, possibly as an assistant. He's also proud of what he accomplished at Parker during his seven seasons. He finished with a career record of 37-127, including 5-9 against Craig.

“The two things we wanted to do when I took over at Parker were to reinvigorate the rivalry with Craig and bring some stability to the program,” Masterson said. “I think we did both of those things.

“And I can't say enough about Joe Dye and the administration at Parker. I'm very grateful for the opportunity they gave me.”