RUMFORD – Citing time as a factor, Dave Gerrish has stepped down as varsity coach of the Mountain Valley boys’ basketball program.

Gerrish coached for four seasons and qualified for the playoffs each year. The Falcons won the 2006 Class B West regional and 2007 state championship.

“I did not feel at this time I could give the team the time that is needed,”Gerrish said. “I am lucky to have had the opportunity to coach at MV High School. I have read the secret to success is having failed.”

Gerrish may have been alluding to the team having been eliminated in quarterfinal games in 2008 and 2009.

Gerrish submitted his resignation Monday night to Mountain Valley athletic administrator John Bernard, who was completely surprised by Gerrish’s decision.

“Yes, regretfully, Dave submitted his resignation to me at my house (Monday night),” said Bernard, who was surprised to have an awaiting e-mail seeking comment. “I’ve always known that news travels fast in the River Valley, but…… Dave and I had a very nice talk, and he’s leaving knowing that he’s given his all to the program and has been very successful in doing so. He’ll be tough to replace, but I respect his decision to step down from the position at this time.”

The leading players on the state championship team included 6-foot-5 center Andy Shorey (Mr. Maine Basketball) and his son, D.J. Gerrish.

“Having coached your own only adds to the memories,” Gerrish said. “I have been most proud of our teams when a referee, a former player, a friend, or a fan has taken their time to mention that our teams play hard, smart, or together.”

Gerrish had taken over the coaching reins from Ryan Casey, who had brought back the winning tradition to the program. Casey resigned when he accepted an administration position at the middle school. SAD 43 does not allow its administrators to coach.

“There are truly no ups if there are no downs,” Gerrish said. “Over the last four years the majority of our players have played sports from August to March at a high level of competition. They will always have my respect for giving all they had until the final buzzer. I hope all appreciate their efforts and will to succeed.”

The Falcons didn’t skip a beat under Gerrish’s guidance and remained a power in the Mountain Valley Conference. The Peru native is quite familiar with winning programs, beginning when he was a player for Rumford over three decades ago. He was a sophomore guard on the 1977 Class A state championship team. Two other team members – Andy Shorey senior, and Matt Kaubris – have strong ties to the Mountain Valley program. Shorey has served as assistant coach and Kaubris’s son, Cam, is the starting point guard for the Falcons.

Gerrish extended his sincere thanks to the young men who dedicated themselves to the team and accomplished so many goals. Gerrish was grateful to assistant coaches Shorey, Jack Kaubris, Bob Laubauskas, and Dave Radcliffe, and Gerrish added a special thanks to Rick White, who’s coaching preparation and scheduling were top notch. The administration was great as well, Gerrish said.

“At the end of the day; it is the player’s commitment, work ethic, skill, and passion for basketball that will define the team – as it should,” said Gerrish.