CHESAPEAKE – He had to follow a legend that was not only the most successful coach in school history but one of the best in Ohio high school history as well.

He also took over a team with no returning starters just as school was about to start.

So a 2-6 record at tradition-rich Chesapeake and other problems led to the resignation of head coach Ron Reed Friday following the Panthers 72-41 loss to the Rock Hill Redmen.

“Coming in late put two strikes on you and Roger Clemens was on the mound,” Reed said.

Assistant Bryan Wells will be the interim coach.

Chesapeake is now 2-6 on the season and has suffered three straight lopsided losses.

“I thought about it hard over Christmas. I had to tell Joe (Rase) and Sam (Hall) I couldn’t do it any more. It was best for the kids to try a new approach,” Reed said.

“I just thought it would be best to stop now and regroup and maybe get it back on track.”

Reed expressed his thanks to superintendent Sam Hall, principal Joe Rase and the coaching staff.

“They are good kids and the administration is one of the finest I’ve ever been around. The girls’ coaches really worked with me. I really appreciate what they did.”

Hall said Reed is expected to give his official resignation on Monday. He said the timing of the resignation makes for a difficult situation.

“It’s very unfortunate that things didn’t work out that he couldn’t finish the season, but I hope that we can pick up the pieces and regroup and do as well as we can the rest of the season,” Hall said.

“We have to move on. The decision has been made and we are reacting in a positive direction for the district.”