Tucker Steps Down as Coach of Wings, Will Stay as Scout
from press release
The National Lacrosse League’s Philadelphia Wings have announced that head coach John Tucker has stepped down from his role effective immediately. He will, however, remain with the Wings as the team's new director of U.S. collegiate scouting efforts.
"There are currently incredible time constraints in my life that
will infringe on the ability to handle daily responsibilities with
the Wings," Tucker said. "I approached owner Mike French with the
hope that I could take a step back within the organization. I love
the direction and future prospects of the franchise – there
are wonderful people throughout. My ability to help identify future
U.S. talent will undoubtedly help this franchise continue to move
forward."
"John and I go back to the inaugural season of the Philadelphia
Wings in 1987," said Executive Vice President and Co-Owner Mike
French. "We have not only been teammates but also close personal
friends for more than 20 years. We certainly understand the time
commitment that it takes to get the Wings back to their winning
ways. We support John's request and we look forward to his guidance
as we prepare for the upcoming draft in September."
Tucker served as the Philadelphia Wings Head Coach during the 2011
season, after working as the team's Offensive Coordinator for the
2010 season. John was one of the most dominant two-way performers
during his six-year tenure as a Wing. As the Wings captain, he led
the team to two NLL Championships in 1989 and 1990. This past year
John became the ninth Wings player/executive to be inducted into
the National Lacrosse League Hall of Fame. He joined other Wings
– Russ Cline, Chris Fritz, Gary Gait, Paul Gait, Mike French,
Tom Marechek, Tony Resch and Dallas Eliuk.
A replacement has not been named.
"We anticipate that the process will be thorough but will move quickly," said French. "Management and ownership have a strong understanding of what they feel the key needs are for the next Head Coach of the Philadelphia Wings."
