"I feel like I've done everything I said I would do when I first got here," Triaga said. "Now I want to be a better dad and a better husband and those things far outweigh the other factors in my life.
"I'm thankful for my time here, and I hope everyone thinks that Chestatee basketball is better because of my six years here."
During his tenure with the War Eagles, Triaga compiled a record of 82-74, including two trips to the GHSA Class AAA tournament and a sweet 16 berth in 2007. The War Eagles finished 12-13 this season.
"I'm going to remember the relationships I built with the players here," Triaga said. "A lot of people don't remember the state of basketball here six years ago. I think we've done very well. We've averaged 17 wins per year for the last four years."
Triaga is leaving to accept a teaching position at Dacula High in Gwinnett County, a job that will keep him much closer to his home.
"I've had a long commute for the last six years," Triaga said, "and it really starts to take it out of you. Plus I'll be finishing my dissertation for my doctorate this summer and fall. That's going to take a lot of my time, so I want to be closer to home."
Triaga says he will be involved with the basketball program at Dacula, though he will not be taking over for the Falcons, who are currently coached by B.J. Roy.
"Coach Triaga did a fine job, and I'm happy for him," Chestatee althetic director Chip Underwood said. "He'll have a lot more hours with his family now."
Triaga is returning to Gwinnett County schools after last teaching in the system in 2000. He left for a position with Oconee County for three years before coming to Chestatee.
"You only get so many chances to go back to Gwinnett County," Triaga said.
Chestatee principal Bill Thompson said he also wished Triaga well.
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Chestatee boys basketball coach Russ Triaga, far left, announced he is resigning his position as War Eagles coach on Thursday.
http://accesswdun.com/article/2009/3/218798