Ray steps down at St. Charles East

After four years as head coach of the St. Charles East softball team, Eric Ray resigned last week, the day after his Saints ended the season in a regional loss to Glenbard North.

The main reason was his family. Ray has a small child and another on the way.

"It was not an easy decision," Ray said.

In his time as the varsity coach, Ray compiled a 57-56-1 record. This year, the Saints went 15-15.

"Coming in, I had a plan, and the parents were 100 percent supportive," Ray said. "Overall, career-wise, I did what I wanted to accomplish."

Ray is leaving the program in solid shape, as only two seniors graduated this year.

"There's a lot of talent left -- they just have to believe," Ray said.

Ray isn't going anywhere. He will continue to teach physical education at St. Charles East and will be an assistant with the football and wrestling teams.

He hopes his replacement is someone already in the program.

"It would be an easier transition for the girls," Ray said.