The Memorial University men’s basketball program has never won an Atlantic conference championship, the only AUS school to hold that dubious distinction.
The Sea-Hawks, since 2001-02, have had more wins than losses in a single season on two occasions.
Twice.
The Sea-Hawks are a cartoon.
A move had to be made. A move was made, finally, for the good of the men’s basketball program.
Memorial’s athletic director Karen Murphy confirmed Friday morning men’s varsity coach Peter Benoite is done.
In keeping with the political correctness that infiltrates the university, Murphy could not say if Benoite was fired or quit. It’s not policy to discuss such things.
But she did acknowledge the university is, “looking for a new coach.”
It had to happen. It was time. It was actually time a few years ago.
Since 2010-11, the Sea-Hawks have made four AUS post-season appearances, including this year which was actually a decent season until it unraveled with injuries.
But that’s this season. What about all the others since 2010, when Benoite was hired, when the Sea-Hawks have been a combined 53-147 since?
The losing cannot continue. The program cannot continue to resemble an intramural program.
It’s time for Memorial University to figure out if it wants AUS men’s basketball. It’s time to start developing some kind of winning culture.
This move, at least, is a start.
Memorial has its advantages. Outside soccer, basketball is the only men’s varsity game on campus. The popularity of the NBL Canada’s St. John’s Edge could only, with some help, enhance the Sea-Hawks’ image, or so one would think.
Another bonus, one would think, is Memorial has first crack at any and all locals, although for whatever reason, Caleb Sooley of Mount Pearl was ignored by Benoite after lighting it up this season with Rothesay Netherwood prep school in New Brunswick.
Instead, Sooley has committed to two-time defending champions Dalhousie.
Does Murphy have anyone in mind to replace Benoite?
No. Certainly the uncertainty of these times makes for hiring a coach challenging.
Almost, but not quite as challenging as turning around a floundering program.
Robin Short is The Telegram’s Sports Editor. He can be reached by email [email protected] Follow him on Twitter @TelyRobinShort
