Health issues force Coatesville coach Thompson to step down after one year

After just one season — a very successful season at that — Coatesville boys basketball coach Fred Thompson has stepped down as boss of the Red Raiders, citing health issues.

Thompson missed one Coatesville game during the season due to health concerns.

“It is very disappointing but I have to take care of things right now, and I will not be able to continue as head coach,” Thompson said Sunday. “It is very frustrating but my doctor told me that this has to be taken care of right now.”

Thompson led Coatesville to a 29-3 record, a Ches-Mont League championship, second place in the District 1 Class 6A playoffs and a PIAA semifinal berth. In that game, Coatesville was defeated by eventual 6A state champion Kennedy Catholic, 75-69.