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Walsh steps down after five-year run at Schaumburg

When Matt Walsh took over the Schaumburg boys basketball program five years ago, there were concerns that the program might not reach the heights it had reached in previous years.

Walsh made sure the tradition continued, winning three Mid-Suburban League West titles, two outright MSL titles along with three regional championships. He also built a family atmosphere for the Saxons.

But the needs of his family at home became greater and with that, Walsh resigned as head basketball coach at Schaumburg on Thursday. He will remain as a teacher in the school.

"This has been a difficult personal decision, but one that is best for my family and me," Walsh said. "I would like to thank the administration of Schaumburg High School for giving me a wonderful opportunity five years ago."

Schaumburg athletic director Tim Kirby, who hired Walsh to replace Bob Williams, said that Walsh will be missed.

"I have known Matt for 25 years and this decision was not easy for him," Kirby said. "Matt Walsh is a successful teacher and head basketball coach here at Schaumburg. He provided stability and leadership in our basketball program when it was needed the most."

Walsh, who has been in the coaching ranks for 18 years, was 87-58 in his five seasons as head coach at Schaumburg. His teams were sectional finalists in 2010, 2011 and 2012. His teams also won the MSL title in 2011 and 2012.

"Mr. Tim Little (Principal) and Mr. Tim Kirby (Athletic Director) could not have been more supportive or better to work for," Walsh said. "I would like to thank the coaches I've had the pleasure of working with, and mostly I'd like to thank the players I've had the honor and privilege of coaching. I will certainly miss it, but I feel I need to find some balance in my life, and my wife and I are looking forward to watching our children grow up."

Walsh, who earned the respect of his colleagues by being named IBCA (Illinois Basketball Coaches Association) District 4 Coach of the Year 2011 & 2012, earned the respect of his players and co-workers at Schaumburg as well.

"He is very well liked by his students and players," Kirby said. "I respect his decision to step back from coaching at this point in his life for the reasons he has previously stated. Matt is a respected colleague and I look forward to his continued leadership academically and in the extra-curricular realm of Schaumburg High School."

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