The Chesapeake Bayhawks announced Thursday that the franchise has parted ways with head coach Brian Reese.
In his two seasons as head coach, the Bayhawks went 15-13, missing out on the MLL playoffs for the fourth consecutive year in 2017.
“The Bayhawks and Brian have shared tremendous success and enjoyed many journeys together, and have come to a place where the organization chooses to go in a different direction,” the press release read. “We wish Brian and his family all the best and support them in all their future endeavors."
Reese joined the Bayhawks in 2011 as general manager after spending six seasons with the Denver Outlaws, where he was named the MLL Coach of the Year in 2009. He then served as an assistant under former Bayhawks coach Dave Cottle before being promoted to head coach for the 2016 season.
Prior to the formal announcement, Reese spoke with Inside Lacrosse to confirm he was let go.
“I want to thank the Bayhawks and Brendan Kelly for the opportunity to be the head coach of the team," Reese said to Inside Lacrosse. "This is a first class organization with great people who continue to push this league forward. I regret that we were unable to win a championship in my two years as coach, but know this team is poised for big things.
“The part I will miss the most is the players and having the privilege to coach them was a huge honor,” Reese continued. “Where my career is, I couldn't give the organization what they wanted in a full-time capacity. There are absolutely no hard feelings and wish the organization nothing but the best. I've been a part of this league for 17 years. It's a huge part of my life and I hope to be able to contribute in the future."
Reese graduated from Maryland in 1998 as an All-American defenseman before becoming a four-time MLL All-Star in his five seasons as a player from 2001 to 2005. He also competed in the NLL from 1998 to 2005.
BREAKING NEWS: @breese34 and @TheBayhawks have parted ways. Comprehensive coverage on https://t.co/oJkK8CQ2nw & the LSN app pic.twitter.com/QGn86QtKbw
— Lax Sports Network (@LaxSportsNet) September 14, 2017
"It's not a nasty divorce" @breese34 joined Lacrosse Now to talk about decision for he and @TheBayhawks to part ways https://t.co/oJkK8CQ2nw pic.twitter.com/2t69uG0H3u
— Lax Sports Network (@LaxSportsNet) September 14, 2017