James Monroe is now in need of a new boys basketball coach.
Matt Sauvage, who guided the program to two Class A state championships and three state tournament berths overall announced his resignation in a statement to the media Tuesday afternoon.
“What an awesome eight years it has been with James Monroe Boys Basketball! It has been an amazing time in my life for myself and my family,” Savage said. “With that being said, I have made the decision to step down, along with (assistant coach) Corey Miller. This was not an easy decision at all – we have wrestled with it for months.
“James Monroe Basketball has made a huge impact on my life, and I pray that I was able to make a difference in the players that came through during my time! I cannot say ‘Thank You’ enough for all the support we received from Monroe County, administrators at James Monroe, faculty, students, parents, former players and many more! Also a big thank you to the players, coaches, off-season coaches, book keepers, clock keepers, video people, janitors and so many more that make this program what it is!
“A huge shoutout to all the media that put gave our young men so much attention and coverage!
“Basketball has created so many good friends for me – players, coaches, parents, opposing coaches, opposing players, referees, media, (etc.) I could go on and on, but I’ll always be grateful for what basketball has brought in my life!
“The current and former players, I am forever grateful! We will have a lifelong bond that will never go away! Thank you for the memories and I love you all!
“The coaches that have came along side have made me the coach that I am, I will forever have great friends because of the game of basketball: Corey Miller, Adam Dixon, Todd Lusk, Jim Jackson and Kelly Mann. Thank you! I love you guys!
“I have to give a big thank you to my family! Joanna, Shad and Euodia: thank you for putting up with my coaching and most of all, for the love and support you gave me. I love you!
Most importantly, I want to thank God for the opportunity he has given me over the past eight years! My life is nothing without Him. I just pray that I’ve used this platform to glorify Him! Thank you for being my purpose in life and I pray that you were glorified through it all!”
Sauvage took over in 2016, guiding the program to three consecutive state tournament berths in his final three seasons with title victories in 2022 and ’23. Under his watch the program secured eight first team all-state selections including three in 2023.
Sauvage, who also coaches the volleyball team at Greenbrier East, confirmed he plans to keep coaching that program.
