(SYDNEY, N.S.) - Cape Breton University Director of Athletics John Ryan announced today that Matt Skinn, head coach of the Capers men's basketball team, has resigned from Cape Breton University effective April 15, 2016.
The news was shared with team members and staff earlier today.
"I'm disappointed to see Matt leave as our head coach, but I understand and respect his decision," said Ryan. "We are thankful for his time and contributions to the CBU men's basketball program, but family comes first and Matt is ready to move on to new personal challenges."
"I would like to thank John Ryan for giving me the opportunity to be the head men's basketball coach at CBU … it was a dream come true to be able to coach here, at my alma mater, and I will fondly remember my time here in the department," said Skinn. "John's passion for athletics and men's basketball in particular, will ensure that the program will continue to be strong in the years to come.
"I would also like to thank my fellow coaches, Fabian McKenzie, Ness Timmons and Deano Morley for providing the backbone to the Athletic Department. They were always there to lend a helping hand, a listening ear and I leaned on them for support constantly," he added.
For Skinn, a former student-athlete with the Capers, the decision, was without a doubt, the right one to make.
"This was an emotional, but at the end of the day, an easy decision for me to make," said Skinn. "Moving to Calgary will give me the opportunity to be closer to my fiancé, my family and allow me to pursue new endeavors to help advance my career.
A former five-year player for the Capers, Skinn originally came to Cape Breton from Welland, Ont., and leaves the area with fond memories.
"I am excited about what the future holds for me and will forever be grateful to the local and university communities for opening their arms to me and making me feel like one of their own," he said. "As a player for five years, and a coach for four, I have spent a large portion of my life in Cape Breton and I have been able to make friends and create memories that will last a lifetime."
In his four years as head coach of the Capers, Skinn has an overall record of 49-31 and helped guide the Capers to the AUS championship banner in his first season. Skinn also garnered AUS coach of the year honours in 2012-13.
A national search for a permanent head coach will begin in immediately.
Source: Cape Breton Capers Sports Communications