Lions coach resigns

SAINT LEO -- Dave Wilson's three-season tenure as the Saint Leo women's coach ended Monday when he handed athletic director Fran Reidy his resignation.

Wilson, who also was the school's assistant athletic director, took last week off to mull over the decision. He also painted the family's Land O'Lakes home, his wife Barbara said.

Assistant coach John Edwards, who formerly coached the Pasco High girls team, has been named interim coach. Reidy plans to discuss the future of the program with Edwards, but no deadline has been set for a replacement.

Wilson coached the Lions to a 19-62 overall record, 3-39 in the Sunshine State Conference.

"The success had been limited and the feeling was that more time was needed," Reidy said. "You've got to be out all the time."

Therein lies the problem. The Wilsons' two sons -- Kyle, 8, and 5-year-old Bryce -- are actively involved in youth leagues. Kyle plays ice hockey, soccer and baseball, while Bryce plays soccer and baseball. And 3-year-old Payton soon will be playing sports, said Barbara, Saint Leo's athletic trainer.

"The juggling of schedules with my wife and the ability to spend quality time with her and our three boys would be severely affected," Wilson said in a statement released by the university. "I need to find a profession that allows me a more regular schedule, so I don't miss out on their childhood."

Reidy empathized with Wilson, adding that he has trouble finding time to watch his 9-year-old son, Evan, play soccer and basketball in Land O'Lakes youth leagues.

"It's an issue that everyone who has children has to deal with," said Reidy, who also coaches Saint Leo's men's soccer team.

Barbara Wilson plans to continue working as the school's athletic trainer.

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