Barrington's Bronke to step down

Barrington girls volleyball coach Chris Bronke, who guided the Fillies to a fourth-place finish in the 2006 IHSA state tournament, is stepping down after five seasons.

Barrington athletic director Mike Obsuszt made the announcement Monday.

“I want to thank Mr. Obsuszt and Mr. (Steve) McWilliams (Barrington principal) for their support over the last five years,” Bronke said. “They have constantly challenged me to be a better coach.

“More importantly, I want to express sincere and heartfelt gratitude to all of the players and their parents who are part of the Barrington volleyball family.

“I look forward to spending more time with my wife and pursing more advanced degrees to further my career. I wish the program nothing but success in the future.”

Bronke will coach the Fillies for the final time in the state tournament which begins at 6:30 p.m. Thursday for the Fillies against McHenry in the Cary-Grove Class 4A regional.

Bronke directed the Fillies to a 33-10 record and Mid-Suburban League championship in his first season. His career record stands at 96-92.

The Fillies have won 17 of their last 24 matches and are 19-16 this season.

Before arriving at Barrington, Bronke was the assistant varsity girls' volleyball coach at Prairie Ridge for two years.

He helped coach the Wolves to consecutive second-place finishes in the state tournament, including a 42-1 record in 2005.

“We are very supportive and understanding of Chris' decision,” Obsuszt said. “We appreciate all he has done for our girls' volleyball program over the past five seasons.

“Serving as the coach of a varsity program requires a tremendous year-round commitment, which doesn't leave much time for family or other interests.”

Bronke will continue as an assistant coach for the varsity boys volleyball team and as a teacher in the English Department at Barrington.

Obsuszt said a search for Bronke's replacement will start soon. A new coach is expected to be named well before the 2011 season opens next August.