After three and a half seasons, Ron Edwards has resigned as the head basketball coach for the Middlesboro Lady Jackets. The veteran coach submitted his resignation on Monday following a loss to Knox Central where several players decided not to participate in the game. The team played with seven players.

“I resigned because my views and certain team values are more important than individual values or goals. It’s a team game,” said Edwards in a phone interview. “When people understand that, it’s going to be a better society. We play to win the game.

“It’s a team sport. Every night, your number is not going to be called. We’re in a society (where) technology has ruined this generation. There’s instant gratification. Gone are the days where you have to pay your dues and work for something.

“Everything is not going to be given to you. Life is full of ups and downs. You have to deal with adversity. These kids are going to find this out as they get older.”

During Edwards’ tenure at Middlesboro, the Lady Jackets combined for a 28-60 record. The team went 4-20 during his first year before making a big leap to 13-17 his second season.

An injury to Hannah Warren derailed what looked like a successful 2016-17 season as the team started out 5-4 but finished 9-18 following the injury. This season, the team has struggled out of the gate and amassed a 2-5 record prior to Edwards’ resignation.

“I would like to say thank you to the school administration, to the board of education for giving me the opportunity to work with these young ladies,” said Edwards. “It’s been a tough two or three years plus all the personal stuff that I’ve gone through.

“I think those girls have improved. I think it’s going to be in good hands whoever is the next coach at Middlesboro High School. I wish nothing but the best for that team, but I’ve walked away and I feel good about it.”

No information has been given on a replacement for Edwards at the moment. The team is currently on Christmas Break. They return to action on Dec. 27 when they compete against Buckhorn in the Chain Rock Classic.

Reach Anthony Cloud at 606-302-9090 or on Twitter @AnthonyCloudMDN