MAR DEL PLATA, Argentina/TORONTO, Ontario – In a media conference call following Canada’s loss to Panama at the 2011 FIBA Americas Championship in Mar del Plata, Argentina, head coach Leo Rautins announced that he is stepping down as head coach of the senior men’s team. “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed working with the team, watching them grow and improve, but change is a good thing and it is time for a new voice in the locker room,” said Rautins. Wayne Parrish, CEO of Canada Basketball, said he respects Rautins’ decision but that he and Maurizio Gherardini, Managing Director of the men’s program, are anxious to have him continue to be involved in some capacity.
“Leo has been the heart and soul of this program; he has built the team and made significant progress,” said Parrish. “Despite this disappointing loss, we’ve played some great basketball here in Argentina, which is result of Leo’s work with the team over the past years.” He continues, “this team is going in the right direction and our focus is 2016. We would very much like Leo to be involved in some capacity.”
Rautins added that he has always been committed to the program’s success and will continue to contribute in the future.
“Leo has been the heart and soul of this program; he has built the team and made significant progress,” said Parrish. “Despite this disappointing loss, we’ve played some great basketball here in Argentina, which is result of Leo’s work with the team over the past years.” He continues, “this team is going in the right direction and our focus is 2016. We would very much like Leo to be involved in some capacity.”
Rautins added that he has always been committed to the program’s success and will continue to contribute in the future.