Stan Peters, Briercrest College and Seminary’s Director of Athletics, announced today that men’s basketball head coach Galen Plett has resigned and will not be returning to coach the Clippers in 2009.

“As a department, we want to thank Galen for his passion in sharing his faith, his skill in teaching the game of basketball, and his love for his players," said Peters. “We wish Galen, Dale, and Ngwis the best in their future endeavors.”

Over eight years, Plett developed sports ministry opportunities within the ACAC and in Haiti, created a family atmosphere among the team members, developed eight ACAC All-Stars, and guided the Clippers to their first ACAC playoff appearance (2008).

Plett came to Briercrest College and Seminary as a student in the fall of 1993. He played for four years (his full eligibility), then went back to Calgary, where he began his coaching career in the Calgary club system. In 1999, Galen accepted the head coaching position at Briercrest, becoming the fifth Clipper basketball coach in 45 years.

“It has been a great pleasure and privilege to coach the Clippers,” said Plett. “Clipper basketball is a unique basketball program that will continue to positively impact young men and reach even greater success under new leadership. I look forward to supporting the program as a proud alumnus.”

The Department of Athletics will immediately begin a national search for a new men’s basketball head coach.