Ben Laudick

(3-27-24) The Van Wert Schools Board of Education approved the resignation of Ben Laudick at its meeting tonight.

RELATED: Laudick Named New Van Wert Boys Basketball Coach

Laudick was hired in May of 2019, replacing Mark Bagley. During his five years he went 57-60 overall and 19-23 in the WBL.

This past season the Cougars were 4-19 and 1-8 in league play. His best season was in 2022-23 with an 18-8 overall record and 5-4 in league play.

Laudick told the board –

“I’ve been blessed to be part of the basketball program for 25 years as a player and or coach. Some of my best memories are of going to the Cougar’s Den and many other gyms across Northwest Ohio. It’s truly been a dream come true.

It has been an honor to represent the school district and the City of Van Wert. The support we get from our community really means a lot to me and our program.

After lots of reflection, discussion, and prayers, I’ve decided it’s best for myself and my family to step away from the head coach position within the Van Wert basketball program. Many times throughout many years of coaching baskeball, basketball has been the number one priority. But as things have happened and changes, especially a lot this past six to nine months, I felt it was necessary to re-prioritize and refocus my time, energy, and efforts into other facets of my life.”

Laudick will remain as a track coach and Middle School math teacher.