By TYLER HENRY
Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post
On the heels of his team's third 4A state appearance in four years, Abilene head boy's basketball head coach Erik Graefe resigned from his post on Tuesday.
"This was a difficult decision but I feel like it's the right time for me to step aside," Graefe said. "I leave with nothing but love for Abilene. I was so fortunate to have coached with Tyler Bryson, and I am forever indebted to all of the players who played so hard for us."
During his four-year tenure leading the varsity team, Graefe's Cowboys posted a record of 59-27, and flirted with bringing Abilene their second state title in school history.
That run included a 19-4 campaign a season ago, that saw the Cowboys collect yet another sub-state title and finish the year with two All-State selections (Brax Fisher and Stocton Timbrook) on the KBCA team.
Prior to his time as head varsity basketball coach, Graefe served Abilene coaching the JV team, and prior to that, coached the middle school team, for a total of 18 years of service.
While surprising, the two parties will be parting ways on excellent terms, and Coach Graefe will be fondly remembered by all in Cowboy Country, having laid the groundwork for whoever steps up to lead Abilene next.
“On behalf of Abilene High School and the community, I would like to thank Coach Graefe for all his years of service to our youth," Abilene Athletic Director Will Burton said. "Not just for the last four years as our head high school coach but also for his years as an assistant at the high school level and as head coach at our middle school. I wish him the best in his future endeavors."
Photo courtesy of Erik Graefe