A humble loyalty: AGWSR head coach Banzhaf retiring

ACKLEY - Russ Banzhaf amassed 423 career wins as a basketball head coach, but says it has been a team effort.
  
Banzhaf noted his success was a combination of dedicated players and assistant coaches along with a supporting school and communities.
  
“I have been blessed with all the support over the years,” said Banzhaf, who recently announced his retirement from coaching.
  
“The continuity of the assistant coaches and players willing to put the time in the during off-season. And the support of the communities and the school administration. Our fans have done a good job of filling the gym, even when we go on the road, and the administration has always backed me and the program.”
  
Banzhaf registered a record of 423 wins against 310 losses as head coach for first the Ackley-Geneva Raiders and then the AGWSR Cougars when Ackley-Geneva and Wellsburg-Steamboat Rock combined.
  
His 33-year head coaching career began in 1986 after serving as an assistant coach at A-G for five seasons.
  
“It has been a very positive experience. I have had some good days and some bad days which is expected in coaching, but the good days far outweigh the bad ones,” smiled Banzhaf.
  
Brad Hames, an assistant to Banzhaf for the past 24-years, said his footprint at Ackley would be remembered. “The thing that sticks out to me is getting 423 wins all at one school. He didn’t chase the talent and he had his opportunities, but he won here in Ackley.”
 
He added, “Russ is one of the most organized guys I have been around and was ready for any situation. He always had a game plan. He was very respected around the league.”
 
Like Banzhaf, Hames is hanging up the whistle and retiring from coaching basketball.
 
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