Appalachian State University men's basketball assistant coach and ASU alumnus Ahmad Smith has resigned his position on the Appalachian staff to become the head coach of the Irish SuperLeague's Shamrock Rovers. Smith, a 2004 graduate and former basketball standout, has been on head coach Houston Fancher's staff for the past four seasons.

'This is a great opportunity for me to get head coaching experience, especially at the professional level,' said Smith. 'This was one of the hardest decisions I've ever had to make. The only thing that made it easier was knowing what great people there are in the program and the continued success they'll have.'

The Shamrock Rovers, based in Dublin, finished with a 9-12 record last season but have a strong history of success, winning the league cup in 1997, 98, 99 and 2000. The squad also captured the national championship in 2000 and was a SuperLeague finalist in 2003.

'We are excited for Ahmad and Teresa as they embark on this new phase of their life,' said Fancher. 'Ahmad has been and will continue to be a great ambassador for Appalachian basketball and we are very appreciative of his service.'

In addition to his four years on the coaching staff, Smith suited up for the Black and Gold from 2002-04 and lead the program to a Southern Conference North Division title in 2003. He graduated with a degree in recreation management in May, 2004 and is married to the former Teresa Richardson, who was also a standout on the hardwood at Appalachian.

by Appalachian Sports Information