Ferris State University has announced that first-year men’s basketball head coach Bobby Pietrack has resigned from his position, and has named assistant head coach Alex Fodness as the interim head coach.
Pietrack, who was hired in May of this year from Fort Lewis College and had been there for almost a decade. He announced his resignation from his position on Friday, saying that he intends to retire from coaching so he can return to Colorado and be closer to family.
Pietrack gave a statement on his decision.
“I am currently working through a serious personal health issue,” Pietrack said. “With my children in Colorado, I believe it is important to be closer to them at this stage of both their lives and mine. My top priority is being with my family. I will always love Ferris State and all of the wonderful people here, they have meant so much to be and I will always carry it with me.”
Fodness joined Ferris State in July of this year after serving as an assistant coach at Bemidji State University in Minnesota for the last three seasons.
Ferris State Athletic Director Steve Brockelbank has full confidence in Fodness to lead this program.
“Alex has a strong coaching background and has already proven himself as a valuable member of our staff,” Brockelbank said. “We’re confident in his ability to lead the team as we prepare for the upcoming season.”
Pietrack was hired to succeed former head coach Andy Bronkema, who accepted a position at Central Michigan University, after 12 seasons with the Bulldogs.