Coach Retires Hours Before Tournament Game

Lafayette boys' basketball coach Greg Coldiron is retiring from teaching and coaching immediately because of health issues.

He was not with the team when it played host to Lexington Catholic in the 43rd District Tournament semifinals Wednesday night.

"My doctor gave me orders that I need to step away from it right now," Coldiron said Wednesday morning. "I know it's terrible timing, but I have to do what's best for me and my health."

Coldiron has had heart issues for the last year. He also has diabetes.

"My doctor is scared, and I'm scared about it," he said. "I haven't taken care of myself like I should."

Coldiron, 50, has been coaching for 27 years, 16 as a head coach at five schools — Maysville, Cawood, Russell County, Powell County and Lafayette. He led Powell County to the 2003 Sweet Sixteen.

He was an assistant at Lafayette before succeeding Damon Kelley as head coach two years ago. He guided the Generals to a region runner-up finish last season.

Coldiron said that once his health issues are resolved, he hopes to get back into coaching somewhere else.

Lafayette Athletics Director Mike Kinney released a statement saying, "Our thoughts are with Coach Coldiron as he battles his health issues. We want to thank him for his tireless effort and dedication to all students at Lafayette."