Lass steps down as Grayslake Central coach

Despite the overall success his Grayslake Central girls basketball team enjoyed the last two seasons, Roger Lass did not always have the full support of some parents.

On Tuesday, the likable Lass submitted his resignation after 11 years with the program. He served as the Rams' sophomore coach for eight years before accepting the head varsity position.

The Rams followed up an 18-win campaign in 2008-09 by winning 19 games this past season. They won nine games in Lass' first season.

"I like the players and I like the coaching staff I had," said Lass, who went 46-40 in his three seasons as head coach. "But the atmosphere at Grayslake Central was something I was not comfortable with."

Grayslake Central improved its record every season under Lass. The Rams did not have a senior starter this past season.

They were ousted by St. Viator in their opening game of the Class 3A Vernon Hills regional.

"They still have their top-eight players returning," Lass said. "I think we built a real good program that's going to be good for a long time. I'm proud of that and I'm proud of the players.

"That's a team that could go downstate next year if things go well."