Murrieta Mesa's Varsity Basketball Coaches Step Down

Murrieta Mesa High School's girls and boys head varsity basketball coaches have stepped down.

Girls Head Coach Robert Gergins announced his resignation during the week of March 18, citing a desire to spend more time with his family.

Boys Head Coach Russell Ham decided to step down for similar reasons.

Both launched the basketball programs at the school when it opened in 2009, and the school's first varsity teams in 2010-2011.

During the 2012-2013 season that ended in February, the boys went 17-12 overall and 6-4 in league—their best season yet. This included playing for the Southwestern League title against Great Oak, and playing into the second round of CIF Division 3AAA playoffs.

The girls team also enjoyed its best season to date with its first Southwestern League win in school history. The girls were 13-14 overall and 1-9 in league, and were given an at-large berth to play in the first round of CIF Division 3AAA playoffs.

The positions have been filled from within, according to Murrieta Mesa Athletic Director Bill Bree. Junior varsity boys coach Kyle Rouse will serve as head coach for the boys team, and varsity assistant coach Megan Barbour is stepping up to serve as head girls coach, according to Bree.