Football coach Ken Turner surprises Althoff administration with his resignation
A fixture at Althoff High School for the past two decades and head coach of the Crusaders football program for the past 12 years, Ken Turner announced that he has resigned to become the new head coach at St. Mary’s High School in St. Louis.
Turner, who was an assistant under Glenn Schott before taking over the program prior to the 2008 season, informed Althoff principal Dave Harris and athletic director Greg Leib of his decision on Monday.
“It was a family decision. I live in St. Louis and it’s a chance to spend more time with my family. My son (Ken Jr.) is in the eighth grade and he will be starting high school at St. Louis U. High next year,” Turner said. “With me being at St. Mary’s, I will be only 5-10 minutes away.
“It was a very difficult decision. I’ve been at Althoff for 20 years. It was difficult telling (Dave) Harris and my coaches, but it was a family decision.’’
Turner, who also has been an assistant baseball and track and field coach during his time at Althoff, led the Crusaders to a record of 79-51 in his 12 seasons. The Crusaders had 10 winning seasons and made eight playoff appearances, highlighted by trips to the Class 2A state title game in 2012 and the Class 4A state championship game in 2015.
A three-time Belleville News-Democrat coach of the year, Turner led Althoff to three conference championships. More important than the wins and losses were the relationships with his players and coaches, he said.
“I’ve had the opportunity to work with and be associated and develop relationships with many great people at Althoff,’’ Turner said. “The players who I have had the opportunity coach have just been tremendous.’’
Althoff athletic director Greg Leib said Turner’s announcement Monday came as a surprise.
“I was a little surprised when coach Turner informed us of his decision,’’ Leib said. “KT has just done a tremendous job here both as a coach and an educator and he will be missed. We wish him well in his future.’’
Turner will remain at Althoff through the remainder of the school year, then begin at St. Mary’s in July. Leib said the job of hiring Turners successor will begin as soon as possible.
Turner will take over the St. Mary’s program from Corey Bethany who resigned last month to become an assistant coach at Lindenwood University in St. Charles, Missouri.
Bethany led St. Mary’s to a 31-16 record over the past four years. St. Mary’s athletic director Tony Dattoli said St. Mary’s is fortunate to land Turner as its new head coach.
“Ken brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to St. Mary’s High School, not only as a coach but as a teacher and mentor,’’ Dattoli said in a press release. “He understands the balance between winning games and education excellence. I believe that Ken’s desire to develop the character of our young players will be a great attribute for our Dragons. His commitment to instilling good sportsmanship skills is an example for all high schools.”
