Gwinnett Daily Post

While high school baseball season is still many months away, one of Gwinnett County's best programs is looking for someone new to guide it next spring.

Heath Kennedy, who guided Hebron Christian Academy to its first GHSA postseason appearances, including the school's first Georgia High School Association state championship, resigned Friday after five seasons as the Lions' head coach.

Kennedy also confirmed he was also resigning his teaching position at Hebron, and that community coaches Josh Brookshire and Chad Mashburn will not return to the team.

"I really can't comment, other than to say that I resigned for personal reasons," Kennedy said when contacted by phone Friday. "There comes a time in your career when it's time for a change. I think this is best for both parties."

Kennedy leaves after guiding the Lions to a 118-26 record over his five years.

Hebron made Class A state playoff appearances the past four years, including the 2011 state title.

With the current school year just over a month old, the timing of Kennedy's resignation seems unusual.

But Kennedy reiterated his feeling that while the move was a tough decision for him, it was the right thing to do at this time.

"I told the kids (Friday)," Kennedy said. "It was an emotional day for all of us, but (the decision to resign) had nothing to do with them. It's just time for a change.

"We've had a lot of great success, and I wish the school nothing but success in its mission."

While Kennedy said his plan is to take the next year off from coaching and teaching, he did not rule out the possibility of returning to coaching as an assistant or community coach if the right opportunity came along. He also added that he has already been contacted by at least one school.

Attempts to reach Hebron athletics director Bryan Bartley for comment were unsuccessful as of Friday afternoon.