Last month, theology teacher Kevin Poelker stepped down as head basketball coach. Athletic director Kevin Roberts made an announcement to the faculty about the decision.

“We are grateful for his work and dedication to the program and thankful that he will continue teaching theology to our young men,” Roberts said.

Poelker declined to comment for the story.

Former forward Griffin Palmer said he was sad about his coach’s departure.

“That’s all I’ve ever known is Coach Poelker being the basketball coach,” Palmer said.

In eight seasons as head coach, Poelker went 126-98 and made a trip to Mizzou Arena for the Class 5 state championship in 2013. That was the first time in 11 years that the basketball team had made it to the state championship.

Former guard Dillon Gilkey developed a great relationship with his coach. The little things about his coach were what stood out to him, especially something like a hug after a game.

“We had some great moments with him,” Gilkey said. “He was a great coach, he did a lot for us, and was a great mentor.”

Griffin Palmer also had an impactful relationship with his coach.

“He could be a best friend to all of us,” Palmer said. “He could really lay down the law when he needed to, but for the most part he was everyone’s best friend. When you walked in the gym, you never felt out of place, he always made everyone feel at home and feel loved.”