Faith Baptist’s Mason Resigns

Stuart Mason, who coached the Faith Baptist High boys’ basketball team to a Southern Section title in 1990 and a berth in the state final two years later, has resigned.

Mason, 31, will be replaced by Ron Colon, a first-year assistant last season.

Mason said he plans to pursue a teaching position at a Christian school on the East Coast. He was raised in Kentucky and said he might relocate there.

“I know this will sound funny, but I just felt it was time to move on,” said Mason, who is married with two children. “No matter where we go, I really feel the Lord will take care of us.”

Mason, who coached at Faith Baptist for eight years, said he will not pursue another coaching position. “I love coaching,” said Mason, who has degrees in education and theology. “But I think I love the Christian ministry more.”

Mason led the Contenders to the 1-A Division title in 1989-90, and into the Division V final two years later at the Arco Arena. Mason, whose wife Toni also teaches at Faith Baptist, was chosen The Times’ Valley coach of the year in 1991-92.

Colon will serve as a walk-on coach. Colon’s brother, Leonard, played last season for the Contenders as a senior.