There is regret in his voice, but Kelly Grant is putting his coaching life on pause.
The longtime Maryknoll coach is retiring due to health concerns. Grant led Maryknoll and his previous school, Kaimuki, to boys basketball state championships, one of the few who have guided ILH and OIA programs to the pinnacle.
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Maryknoll School made the official announcement Friday.
After playing under Tony Sellitto at Maryknoll and Hawaii Pacific College (now Hawaii Pacific University), Grant began coaching 40 years ago. After assisting at several schools, he led Kaimuki to a state crown in 2007. He took Maryknoll to state titles in 2019 and ’20.
Last year, the longtime physical education teacher battled health issues before the season and had to take time off.
“I got really sick. I had a bad time dealing with anxiety,” Grant said. “I was out of school for a while (before last season). I had to go to emergency. I’m not dying, but I had a long conversation with my family and we thought it was best I step down instead of dealing with stress.”
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During the offseason his health improved, but the time is right. Assistant coach Larry Park will fill in as interim head coach.
“I’ve been coaching for 40 years. I’m tired,” Grant said. “Last season really wore on me.”
He likened this decision to a scene in “Forrest Gump” when the lead character ran and ran for ages until one day, he simply stopped.
“The other day was the first time in 20 years I fell asleep and didn’t wake up until 7 a.m.,” Grant said.
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