The coaching carousel is going to be crazy this summer as news just broke out that the Ryan Curtis of the University of Vermont has stepped down as head coach of the Catamounts.
(Ed. Note: Thanks to true braj, @Horton1733, for the tip.)
Ryan Curtis Steps Down as @UVMmlax Head Coach. #VCats https://t.co/cQfiXuWody pic.twitter.com/tHOM6041Zr
— UVM Men's Lacrosse (@UVMmlax) May 9, 2016
This does come as a bit of a surprise, as the Catamounts just concluded their first winning season since at least 2005, beat Stony Brook for the first time in program history last week, and were a couple plays away from winning the America East AQ. Vermont looked like they were building something solid as this year's return trip to the conference tournament was the first time the Catamounts ever made the AE Tournament in back-to-back seasons.
Despite the suddenness of the news, this seems to be a amicable parting of the ways, as Vermont Athletic Director, Bob Corran, tweeted out a heartfelt message to BOSS Curtis and thanked him for his years of service.
Wishing @UVMmlax Coach Curtis the best in a new life at Westminster. Thanks for all that you accomplished and thanks for making us better
— Bob Corran (@BCorran) May 9, 2016
Additionally, the press release was more, let's just say, effusive in praise as opposed to some of the other coaching change press releases we've read this year. Indeed, the release took note to highlight that BOSS Curtis was the first coach in program history to be named America East Coach of the Year. Athletic Director Bob Corran also praised Curtis for his steady stewardship of the program and contributions over the years.
"Ryan has done a remarkable job in building a strong foundation for our men's lacrosse program," said Associate Vice President and Director of Athletics Dr. Robert Corran. "This past weekend was a clear indication of how far the program has come and what the potential is for the future. We are indebted to Ryan for his service and exceptional contribution to our student-athletes and the lacrosse program, and wish him and his family the very best in their new life at Westminster."
BOSS Curtis will be coaching and teaching at Westminster School in Simsbury, Connecticut. Vermont noted that they are conducting a nationwide search for his replacement.