PAUL Smith has stepped down as head coach of the Cheshire Jets and will be replaced by his assistant, John Lavery.
Smith was in his second spell as Jets boss, having helped save the Chester-based club from extinction in 2007.
He has decided to move aside so he can concentrate fully on ‘Headcoach’, a motivational workshop for businesses which the Jets have launched.
News of Smith’s departure will come as a shock to fans of the Northgate Arena outfit but the man himself is certain he has left the team in safe hands.
Smith said: “It was a tough decision, but it was the right decision. I am disappointed I wasn’t able to bring silverware back to Chester before I stepped down because last time I stood down they were at the top.
“But I have known John for 30 years, we’re best friends. He knows the game as well as anyone and the players respect him so I am confident he can keep the team going the right way.”
Lavery, a former England international whose career was spent notably at Manchester United and the Cheshire Jets, has been assistant coach since March last year and is looking forward to his new responsibility.
He said: “It was a bit of a surprise when Paul and Pete told me what was happening. It is something I have wanted to do for a long time and the opportunity was too good to turn down.
“The playing staff will be a bit different but at the moment we are working on who we would like to keep.”
Since 2007 the Jets have improved year on year – and Smith believes fans will see that again in 2011-12.
“With the exception of some teams last season, the top sides in the BBL evolve over time and retain good players,” said Smith. “That is what we are doing and that is why I have to focus on other things.”
As the Jets continue to negotiate over their squad for the 2011-12 season, they remain locked in talks with LA Lakers star Ron Artest.
The forward is believed to still be interested in a move to Chester during the NBA’s pay dispute with its players.
The Cheshire Jets Summer Camp gets under way next week with Matt Schneck – last year’s stand-out rookie – making an making an appearance as guest coach.
The centre from Wisconsin is in talks with the Jets about signing for a second year, although The Chronicle understands Plymouth Raiders have made an approach.
