Former Lone Peak football coach issues statement denying wrongdoing

Lone Peak football coach Tony McGeary announced his resignation Monday. You can read here about the allegations of financial misconduct that preceded that decision.

McGeary, who coached at the school for five seasons and won a state championship in 2011, declined to be interviewed for the story when I contacted him this week. On Wednesday evening, however, he sent this statement denying any wrongdoing. I have included that statement, in full and un-edited, below.

— Aaron Falk

2/27/13

Coaching is an honor and a privilege and a thankless job. It has been my life's work and I love the boys and feel like Lone Peak Football is about more than winning, it is about making good strong leaders and contributing to a better society. It would be impossible with a team of 100 players to make every boy a super star or to get them all scholarships, let alone start and play each one. At every parent meeting I state that I will work with each player to prove them self, but ultimately we are striving to get the best 11 players on the field.

My decision to resign is because I did not want to cause any strain or hurt to the Lone Peak Football program. I wanted to make sure our team, students, and this program continues to be successful and to assure that Lone Peak students and team are not harmed.

I have worked tirelessly with my Administration to make sure that I was following all policies and have done everything that has been asked. I am appreciative of the support I have received.

As stated in my resignation letter, I appreciate the opportunity I have had to be here and have enjoyed every minute of it. I am proud of the record that I was able to accomplish in the last 5 years (51-12), that we made it to the play offs all 5 years and earned a State Championship, sending close to 30 players onto the next level.

I believe I have handled every aspect regarding finances for our program with the utmost integrity and character. I am exiting this program in the black, and have been instrumental in the improvements to our facilities.

Mostly, I loved working with the young men of this community and have enjoyed watching them serve in the military, for their churches, and go into College.

Sincerely

Coach Tony McGeary