John Swickrath, head men's basketball coach at Lynchburg, announced his resignation Wednesday.

Swickrath, promoted to guide the program for the 2003-04 season after one year as an assistant at LC, was one of the youngest head coaches ever at the Division III level.

In 2003-04, Swickrath led the Hornet program to its most wins since the 1996-97 season, and also defeated ODAC rival Roanoke for the first time in 18 years. The young mentor also led LC to a 54-50 ODAC Tournament defeat of No. 1 seeded Randolph-Macon - the first No. 8 seed to defeat a No. 1 seed in conference tournament history, spanning 24 years. The 2004-05 squad almost repeated the huge ODAC Tournament upset, losing to top-seeded Randolph-Macon in overtime. He posted a record of 32-96 in his five seasons as head coach.

"We wish John the best of luck in his future endeavors," said Jack Toms, Lynchburg director of athletics. "We appreciate what he has done for the basketball program and athletic department the last six years. I'm sure he will succeed wherever he decides to go from here."

A nation-wide search will begin immediately to fill the opening. "It has been a very enjoyable experience the last six years at LC," said Swickrath. "The coaches and staff members have been great to work with and have taught me an immense amount of information about coaching. I leave knowing we worked hard as a staff and did many positive things for our players and community."