An NLL Master Coach Calls it Quits By Joshua Blumenthal E-Lacrosse Corespondent

It was 1988 and just the second year of the old Major Indoor Lacrosse League (MILL) when Tony Resch first stepped onto the old turf of the Philadelphia Spectrum to compete in his first ever 60 minutes of Wings lacrosse. Little did Resch know that that game would turn into 14 more years of play, six world titles and a lifetime legacy in National Lacrosse League (NLL).

Resch competed as a player for six years and served as captain for three of them, while helping Philadelphia capture two world championships (1989 and 1990) before fully taking over the reigns as the third head coach in Wings history in 1994.


Me in action this past year

Like in his playing days as a defensive specialist, it did not take Resch long to adjust to the new challenge, as the Wings claimed their third and fourth titles in just his first and second years coaching, respectively. His teams also qualified for the playoffs each year and would capture four world championships in 1994, 1995, 1998, and 2001, while boasting a 59-27 record and a .686 winning percentage during his tenure.

Despite all of his coaching success however, on July, 10th, 2001 Tony Resch decided to hang up his whistle and pursue other life opportunities as Athletic Director and English teacher at LaSalle High School, thus ending one of the most prolific NLL coaching career's in history.

Labeled by many as the greatest NLL coach of all-time, Resch will surely be missed by all, but will go out on top after claiming this years NLL Championship on April 27, 2001 and will forever be known as permanent fixture in Wings history.

"I think that Tony has been a critical part of the team as a player, captain and coach, said Wings Co-Owner/Executive Vice President Michael French. "Without question in my opinion he is the best coach I have ever seen as his record speaks for itself."

According to French, who was formerly an Executive Advisor for Lacrosse Operations for the MILL, the players who retire from the Wings organization are always welcomed back, and although Resch will not be behind the bench during games, he will never be to far from the team.

"One of the differences with our team is that once people graduate they still remain involved," French continued. "We would like him to stay on as an advisor."

Such was the case in former General Manager's Jim Rogers and Steve Govett and Director of Player Personnel Scott Gabrielson, all former Wings team members.

In addition to the many cheers from around the city of Philadelphia, Resch has also received recognition from the league itself, as was evident in his selection as head coach of the U.S. team in the first-ever NLL All-Star Game in 1998. More recently however he was named as the 2000-2001 NLL Coach of the Year.

"In the short time that I have known him since taking this office, Tony has been a first class representative of our League," said NLL Commissioner Jim Jennings. "Tony has not only been a great coach and player, but has also done a great job with the media and in the community. We wish him nothing but the best."

Resch admits that while he is very happy with his new position at LaSalle, it will be hard to leave the Wings but he is confident that they will continue to flourish.

"There is no question about wishing them the best," Resch said. "I really believe that the key components are still there."

Like French, Resch has also expressed an interest in staying on with the team in one capacity or another.

"When I told Russ [Cline] and Mike of my decision to retire, both of them were quick to say that they would like me to still help. "I am hoping to be an advisor, consultant or just an extra pair of eyes during the games," Resch said.

In addition to the Wings management, Resch will be missed most of all by the many players whom he has guided throughout the years.

"Tony knows how to deal with each player individually. His timing is impeccable when dealing with situations and players on and off the field," said current Wings defensive specialist John Gagliardi.

"He is shifting into a position that demands his constant attention and the players understand that. We are going to miss his leadership and it is going to be a tough spot to fill."

Current Washington Power General Manager and former Wing Govett concurred strongly with Gagliardi's thoughts towards Resch, stating that "I have the greatest respect for Tony as he had a tremendous work ethic."

However Govett unlike most of the other Wing over the years, not only had the opportunity to play for Resch but in addition to work along side him as well.

"I respected him when I was a player for him and when I was his partner in management," Govett continued. "He was an excellent motivator and was the best coach I ever had. I am sad to see that he is leaving Philly."

Known as one of the showcase teams in the league because of their more than 15,000 average attendance, the Philadelphia fans are equally upset to see their beloved coach depart as long-time fan John Sapello explains.

"It's a big loss for the Wings, especially heading into a transition period in the next couple of years," Sapello said. "Some of the Wings top veterans will probably be retiring soon and the new coach will have to develop the young talent on the team to keep them in the upper echelon of the league."

Sapello who runs a website dedicated solely to the Wings (Wingszone.com) feels that the world titles were a direct result of Resch's ability to bring out the best in his players.

"It's hard to even picture the Wings without Tony," Sapello continued. "He has always brought an incredible intensity, focus, and desire to playing and coaching and will be greatly missed."

As for finding a suitable replacement for Resch, that will surely be a challenge but as French points out, it will eventually happen.

"It will be difficult to find a replacement but we have General Manager Marty O' Neil to help assist and we are patient in our search," French said.

Resch put all his 14-years into perspective when he stated that "The bottom line is that it has been a real honor. I certainly had a great experience and a great run," Resch said.


Me in action this past year




7/20/01