Al Aldridge steps down after four seasons at Clark

Al Aldridge has stepped down after four seasons as women’s basketball coach at Clark College.

Aldridge announced his resignation Wednesday on Facebook.

“It is with sadness and disappointment that I resigned from my Clark College WBB coaching position this week,” he wrote. “I have enjoyed my time there but a difference in philosophy and personal issues make this decision one that I needed to do … All things happen for a reason and God must have a better plan for me or wants me to get out of the profession and rest this tired and aging body.”

Clark College Athletic Director Ann Walker said Aldridge resigned during a meeting with her a few days after Clark’s season ended on Feb. 29. She said Aldridge stepped down for personal reasons.

“We just appreciate all the time and dedication he has given to our women’s basketball program,” Walker said.

Aldridge joined Clark in 2012 after becoming one of the most decorated high school coaches in state history. In 32 years at Prairie High School, he led the Falcons to six state titles, 27 state tournament appearances and posted a career record of 719-139.

He was runner up for National Coach of the Year in 2000 and had more than 100 of his athletes go on to play at NCAA programs.

On March 18, Aldridge will be inducted into the inaugural class of the Washington State Girls Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame.

Aldridge compiled a 66-40 record at Clark, including a fifth-place finish at the NWAACC tournament in 2014.