Eliasen resigns as head boys’ basketball coach

Pat Eliasen enjoyed his time as Vikings Head Basketball Coach, but has resigned because of his work commitments as Cook County Sheriff. He hopes to be involved with the team in some way.

On Tuesday, July 21, Cook County High School’s Head Basketball Coach Pat Eliasen announced his decision to leave the Viking boys’ basketball program because his new job as Cook County’s top law enforcement officer left him little time to coach and then spend time with his family. It wasn’t an easy decision, said Eliasen, who said he enjoyed his two years at the helm.

“I am announcing my decision to step down as head coach of the Cook County boys’ basketball team,” Eliasen wrote. “This was not a choice made very easily and several factors went into the decision.

“Family, work, commitment, and my desire to be a part of the growth of student athletes were all elements that were weighed in this decision.

“It ultimately came down to prioritization and what I felt was the right thing to do. I can no longer offer the time needed to perform the head coach duties as well as effectively serve the people of Cook County as sheriff. One of these positions had to be in the forefront and with much deliberation, I have made my decision.

“I would never trade one minute of the last two seasons that I have spent as head coach. I would much prefer to remain in this position, but at this time, I can no longer do each respective job efficiently and the priority falls upon my duties as sheriff.

“I may remain within the program as an assistant coach if the new head coach and the administration at ISD 166 see fit to keep me. This is a better fit for me and the team, in the event that I am called away for some reason, there will still be someone there to lead. I want to thank ISD 166 for giving me the opportunity to step in as head coach, the parents of these young men who trusted me to be in their lives, the players for putting up with me and giving everything of themselves to be part of my team and my fellow coaches who were always there for support.”