Pease resigns after 15 years at Geneva

For the first time since 1993, the Geneva boys basketball team will have a new face on the sideline next winter.

Vikings coach Tim Pease announced he is resigning after 15 years coaching his alma mater. Geneva went 17-12 this year in his final season, including 9-5 in the Western Sun Conference.

Pease said he is resigning to spend more time with his family. His daughter Kelsey was a freshman this year on Geneva's sophomore basketball team.

This is what Pease said about his final year in a story March 7: "This was one of my favorite seasons, and I have been doing this since 1985. This team showed me some things -- they reminded me this is fun."

Pease's last game also turns out to be one of his most exciting -- a triple overtime loss to Naperville Central last month in the Class 4A regionals.

Geneva will begin a search to fill the job. The school said it is desirable the candidates be able to assume a teaching position at the high school. Interested candidates can submit a letter of interest to athletic director Jim Kafer at Geneva High School, 416 McKinley Ave., Geneva, 60134.

Kafer and principal Tom Rogers both released statements.

"Coach Pease has done an excellent job representing Geneva High School," Kafer said. "His teams were always well prepared, and they conducted their business in a first-class manner. I don't like seeing him walk away, but I understand and respect his decision."

"Tim Pease bleeds blue and white, and he has poured his heart and soul into Geneva basketball for many years," Rogers said. "I certainly understand and support his desire to spend more time with his family."