CINCINNATI — Withrow boys basketball coach Berdo Allen announced Tuesday afternoon he has stepped down from the position after five seasons.
“I enjoyed my time at Withrow,” Allen said. “I’m thankful for the opportunity that Jonas Smith gave me. He was the AD that hired me.”
Allen expressed gratitude toward several other individuals connected to the school and program including Withrow principal Jerron Gray, Withrow athletic director Regina Williams, former Withrow basketball coach George Jackson, Withrow head football coach Anthony Berry and former Withrow football coach Kali Jones, who is now at Middletown.
“I love the school; I love the staff,” Allen said. “I’m most proud of the relationships I built with my players.”
Allen created a positive impact in the lives of Withrow student-athletes over the years. The program’s culture emphasized accountability, togetherness and grit. Academics was a priority in the program and several student-athletes earned honor roll recognition.
"I just wanted to take a moment to thank Coach Allen for all of the time, dedication, and effort he’s poured into the Withrow boys basketball program," Williams said. "Your leadership and hard work have not gone unnoticed, and I know I’m not alone in feeling grateful for everything you’ve done."
Multiple former players reached out to Allen through text to express their support of the former Tigers coach on Tuesday. Multiple high school basketball programs have reached out to Allen with interest in adding him to their coaching staff.
"The impact you’ve made on these young men goes far beyond the field/court, and your commitment to pushing them to be better athletes and people will always be remembered," Williams said. "We’re lucky to have had you as a coach, and I wish you nothing but the best in your future endeavors."
For now, Allen has turned his focus to his coaching involvement in the Nike EYBL, where he is starting his sixth year.
“Thank you to my current and former players for all that you have done for the program and the life lessons you allowed me to teach,” Allen said in a Facebook post. “It’s more than a game.”
Withrow had a 3-18 overall record including 0-10 in the Cincinnati Metro Athletic Conference this season, according to the CMAC website. La Salle defeated Withrow in the first round of a Division III district quarterfinal game Feb. 20 at Western Brown.
