Fred Febach is stepping down after 12 seasons as head coach of the varsity boys basketball team at Flathead High School.
Activities Director Bryce Wilson confirmed that Febach submitted a letter of resignation Thursday morning.
The process for finding a new head coach will begin immediately, Wilson said. After previously stating the new coach would work this upcoming season in an interim role, Wilson clarified that the position would be advertised as a full-time hire. The school would review the position in detail at the end of the season, he said.
The first day of practice is Nov. 19.
“He realized it was not the most opportune time, but he felt it was time for a change and that the program needed a fresh start,” Wilson said of Febach.
Flathead went 4-17 last year and missed out on the Class AA playoffs. In 12 seasons under Febach, the Braves were 113-135 with five state tournament appearances. The team placed second in 2012 as a No. 3 seed from the West after losing to top-ranked Billings West in the championship game, 61-48.
“He has given his heart and soul to the program,” Wilson said of Febach. “He bleeds black and orange and is definitely Flathead through and through. I value everything he’s given to our kids as far as what they’ve learned on and off the court. He’s definitely somebody who has been a very good role model.”
Febach continues to teach at Kalispell Middle School.
Febach was hired in spring 2003 to replace Kent Leiss, who resigned to take a coaching and teaching position in Coeur d’Alene. Febach coached junior varsity girls basketball before taking over as head coach. He also coached sophomore boys and girls basketball before the seasons switched. Before that he coached softball for six seasons. He has been in the school district for 26 years.