Browning’s Coach Connelly to retire

After more than three decades of coaching young athletes, Coach Dan Connelly has announced he is retiring. Noting his daughter’s entry into post-secondary education, he said it’s time to be available for her and his family.

In addition, he expressed every confidence that a suitable replacement can be found in time for the 2023-24 volleyball and basketball seasons.

The following is a statement from the coach about his decision and reflections on his long and illustrious career.

“After a very emotional moment for me and my family, I have decided to step aside from my position as head basketball coach. This is not a decision that was made impulsively. Rather, it is a move that was arrived at after much soul searching and discussion. I want to take this time to thank you for giving me the opportunity to pursue my passion of coaching, not only basketball skills but life skills to the youth of our community. I believe that the timing of my decision is in the best interests of everyone involved so you can find a replacement as soon as possible.

“When I pursued the position six years ago, I had some unfinished business. First and foremost, we wanted to help restore respect, excitement and competitiveness to this proud basketball program. I wanted us to build a program that could compete for a championship each season. I feel that we were able to achieve this.

“I did not do this alone. I was fortunate to assemble an incredible staff who had the same visions as I did. Few programs have a staff of such loyal, smart and committed individuals as do the Runnin’ Indians. The players we have here in Browning are second to none. They stayed the course, and their focus and determination not only led to individual and team accomplishments over the past six years, but have resulted in attracting a new group of talented young men who have committed themselves to continuing this success.

“I have all the confidence that the Runnin’ Indian basketball program will not skip a beat, as I know the competence of this talented staff and the potential of our current players will result in nothing less than success.

“Very few coaches survive in this profession for 30 years. Fewer get to exit on their own terms. I have been so fortunate to be able to do both. But I have not been on this journey alone. The true “heroes” through all of this are my wife, Karla, and daughter, Susan. They sacrificed much over the years — my time, my attention, my presence during important life events. But through it all they remained my biggest supporters, and without their strength and love, I would have left coaching long before this.

“I also owe a debt of gratitude to my “mentors” who, showed me what to do to be successful, what mistakes should be avoided, but more importantly to never trade integrity for wins. While there were many times I experienced the pain and pressures of losing, I was not willing to trade success for self respect.

“Please know that I am truly grateful to everyone for allowing me to coach so many hard working and dedicated players. I know that there will be many who might be distressed by my decision. I hope that when all is said and done, they will understand that in my heart I feel this is the right time for me to focus on the next chapter in my life. I wish you well. Thank you, and Go Indians!”