On Saturday morning, the varsity girls basketball team learned that their head coach Jamal Thompson will be resigning as the team’s coach. According to Athletic Director Mike Janes, Thompson left the team due to personal and family reasons. He was in his fourth year as the varsity head coach.

“Anytime you have some changes, you’re always looking for some new things,” Janes said. “The new coaching staff is going to bring in some new philosophies and new ideas, and I feel that the program is in good hands and I look forward to seeing the new things [Dawn] Hahn brings in and how the kids react.”

Taking over the head coaching position for the Lady Knights is former assistant coach Dawn Hahn. Hahn had been the team’s assistant coach since 2012, and was the head coach of the varsity team from 2002-2010. With having experience as a head coach, Hahn is confident entering her new role.

“Having already done a job similar as to one you’re going to do in the future, that experience helps you build confidence,” Hahn said, “and within those eight years as head coach, I hope that I gained knowledge that I can apply in this situation to help a new group of students.”

Replacing Hahn as the Lady Knights’ assistant coach is Matt Watson. Watson was the team’s head coach from 2009-2012, and served as the freshman coach before that. While he hasn’t coached at the high school level in five years, Watson has stayed around the game of basketball, coaching his son’s team. The biggest factor that led to Watson returning to the varsity level wasn’t just the game itself, but also his previous experience with coach Hahn.

“I had previously worked with coach Hahn, and I felt that we made a good team together,” Watson said. “I also know that the players need some help, and I’m willing to give up the time to provide that help for them.”  

The Lady Knights are 0-4 on the season, and will be looking for a turnaround with Hahn at the helm. Their next game will be in the Varsity Holiday Hoops tournament against Liberty High School on Dec. 27. The tournament will be held at Summit High School, and will be Hahn’s first competition as the new head coach.

Thompson was unable to be reached for the story. Updates will be made as more information becomes available.