Coach Johnson resigns after three seasons leading Lady Dogs

Lady Bulldogs basketball coach Ben Johnson has resigned after three seasons at the helm.

Johnson announced his resignation Feb. 27. In his three seasons, Johnson amassed an overall record of 10-52.

Johnson said it was time to look for teaching opportunities elsewhere.

“It’s just time to move on,” he said. “I’ve given this group a good foundation to continue on with in the future.”

“Everywhere I go, I build some pretty good relationships with kids,” he added. “It’s no different in Whitefish. I built some good relationships that’ll last a lifetime. I’m just blessed I had the opportunity to do it.”

Activities director Aric Harris said he’s been happy to have Johnson running the team for the last few years.

“We appreciate all of his hard work he put in the program the last five years. The quality of play improved, and he’s definitely very passionate about basketball and student athletes and of course I want to wish him the best in his future pursuits,” Harris said.

Johnson joined Whitefish after leading the Gardiner High School Lady Bruins to a state title in 2015. That was his third season at Gardiner, where he also served as athletic director. Johnson replaced Clint Peters, who resigned after two seasons leading the team.

Johnson studied industrial technology at the University of Montana Western and has a Montana teaching license.

In addition to serving as coach, Johnson was also the fall concessions advisor at the high school.

Johnson’s wife, Nancy, also resigned as junior varsity girls basketball coach.

Harris said an opening for the head coach job was posted internally last week and has since opened to out of district applicants.