Western Courier

Issue date: 3/17/08 Section: Sports

Media Credit: Adam Sacasa Derek Thomas was 40-104 in his five seasons at Western Illinois.

Derek Thomas resigned last Tuesday after five seasons as Western Illinois men's basketball coach.

Thomas brought 15 years of coaching experience to Western, although this was his first head coaching position. He said he is appreciative of the chance to coach and feels he has made improvements to the program.

"I am disappointed that we were not able to get more victories over the past few years," he said. "I feel very good about the way I am leaving this program, which I feel is in better shape than when I arrived five years ago."

Athletics Director Dr. Tim Van Alstine said he is positive about the way Thomas influenced students but stressed that Thomas did not meet winning standards for the program.

Thomas compiled a 40-104 record while at Western.

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