Pelham boys basketball coach Owen Butts recently resigned as head coach of the Panthers&8217; varsity program, after four years of service.

&8220;I just think they need some new blood in there. I didn&8217;t get it done this year,&8221; Butts said.

The decision comes after a 1-5 performance in Class 6A Area 10 play this season, finishing last in the area and finishing overall with a sub .500 record.

Butts began his coaching career at Vincent High School in 1973 before moving to Shades Valley High School in 1977. He joined the Pelham coaching staff in 2003.

&8220;Coach Butts worked hard for Pelham basketball and did a good job. I appreciate all of his efforts. He just felt like it was time to move on and do other things,&8221; said Pelham athletic director Brett Burnett.

Although he has spent more than 30 years coaching, Butts says he is considering retirement from the state system, but not coaching. He says he may consider a job with a private school.

Known statewide for his coaching, he was inducted in 1994 to the Alabama Community College Conference Hall of Fame for his time as a player with Alexander City State Junior College, now Central Alabama, from 1969-71.

Burnett says he has already received over 30 resumes and applications for the position, but currently will not name a front runner. The position will be filled over the summer.