Helias boys basketball coach resigns, Fulton hires new football coach

Josh Buffington resigned from his position as Helias’ head boys basketball coach on Wednesday. A release from the school says Buffington stepped down in order to spend more time with his wife and three kids.

Helias President Father Stephen Jones released this statement:

“To say that his decision saddens me is a great understatement. Coach Buffington is a man of faith and high character who cares deeply about the formation of young men. He has had huge success on the court at Helias, but his desire and drive to coach basketball has been rooted – not in the wins and district titles and “final four” appearances – but in his love for the game and for the student athletes and community he has served. His desire to step away in order to focus on his kids and their activities is a worthy one, and he has my full support, even though he will be sorely missed.”

Buffington coached the Crusaders for the past 10 seasons. The 41-year-old led Helias to three Final Four appearances, most recently in 2016.

Buffington released this statement:

“It has been a great 17 years in the business, and I have zero regrets. I love the game. I love to coach and I love to compete, but I am ready for a change. Helias will always hold a special place in my heart.”

Also on Thursday, Fulton announced Trey Barrow will be its new football coach. He spent the past two years as an assistant coach at Waynesville.

Barrow is originally from Moberly, Mo. He was a placekicker and punter for Mizzou from 2010-11.

Barrow will take over for Blake Logan, who resigned in April after just one season as head coach.