Hayes steps down as Hawks' coach

HAYES

STEPPING ASIDE

That's what's made this decision so difficult. Knowing all the hard work that's gone into it and all the potential that's coming up in this program. There have been many sleepless nights as I worked through this decision.”

Kritter Hayes, former Central Lee Head Boys Basketball Coach

DONNELLSON – Central Lee school officials have confirmed that boys' high school basketball coach, Kristopher “Kritter” Hayes, has stepped down from the position.
Central Lee Athletic Director Wes McGraw confirmed the resignation Wednesday afternoon citing Hayes decision to take some time to spend with his family and explore some personal goals.
Hayes said the last few winters have been difficult as he tries to complete his administration certificate in education.
"This was just not right for me," he said.  "I have a master's in educational leadership and have been trying to get my certificate in administration and supervision and it's been very hard to give both the attention they deserve."
The Hawks posted an 11-12 mark in the recently completed season and went 6-8 in the SEI Superconference - both Hayes' best marks in his three years.. He has a 16-51 overall mark at the helm and a 7-37 mark in the conference.
“This was his decision. He decided he wanted to take some time. Basketball season is a grind. You’re booked all summer,” McGraw said.
“He’s wanting to spend time with his family and take care of himself. He let me know right after the season was over.”
McGraw said the position has been opened up and he hopes to have someone in place before this summer. He said the position is an attractive one.
“Right now, we've opened it up and we’re seeing what options we have either within the program or outside of it,” he said. “We have talent coming up. The junior high team has gone undefeated the last few years.
“We’ve had some interest in the position.”
Hayes said the talent coming up through the program is a reflection of the hard work of people involved in the program and it is "absolutely" an attractive position for the right person.
"That's what's made this decision so difficult. Knowing all the hard work that's gone into it and all the potential that's coming up in this program," he said.
"There have been many sleepless nights as I worked through this decision.