RINGGOLD, Ga. - Championship-winning softball coach Tanner Moore resigned at Heritage High School Monday to pursue other career opportunities outside of education, according to school athletic director Eric Schexnaildre.
In four seasons as head coach his teams compiled a 109-29 record, four region titles and three consecutive GHSA Class AAAA championships. Assistant coach Megan Crawford is being promoted to head coach.
"We are extremely grateful for Coach Moore's commitment and effort in leading our softball program," Schexnaildre said. "He and his staff developed strong relationships with our young ladies, which helped them grow as individuals and led to their success on the field."
Moore, who has a fourth-month-old daughter, said the decision was difficult but is something he needs to do.
"Having a daughter puts things in perspective and shifts your priorities," he said. "An opportunity presented itself in the financial industry and it will allow for more financial and time flexibility. Still, it was the hardest decision I've had to make, all because of those girls. I love them to death and I will always be there for them, which I told them today."
Crawford, who was a two-sport star at Ringgold High School and was a member of the 2012 Chattanooga State national championship softball team, is also in her fourth year with the program. According to Schexnaildre, promoting Crawford was an easy choice.
"We are excited to have Coach Crawford leading our girls as our new head coach," he said. "She has all the qualities you look for in a head coach and a leader of student athletes. Megan is the ultimate professional and she is committed to the overall development of our softball players."
Add Moore of Crawford, "She's going to do an awesome job. The girls respect her so much, as I do, and she deserves it."
Contact Lindsey Young at lyoung@timesfreepress.com. Follow him on Twitter @youngsports22.