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After an historic season, leading Maricopa to the 6A boys basketball state tournament, Paul Gretkierewicz has stepped down.
Gretkierewicz announced his decision on social media Monday, stating he wants to spend more time with his family.
"It really came down to wanting to spend more time with family,"  Gretkierewicz said. "This was the first season I coached since my daughter was born and it was tough to be away so much and watch her grow from a distance. Living in Phoenix and coaching at Maricopa causes me to miss a lot of moments with her."
Maricopa features two of the state's more dynamic players in 6-foot-8 junior point guard Kevin Patton Jr., and 6-5 sophomore Kallai Patton, who are brothers. They helped turn around the program in their first year there last season.
The Rams won their first post-season game since 2006 with a 71-63 play-in win over Desert Vista that put them in the 6A 16-team state tournament. Kevin Patton Jr., had 29 points in that win over Desert Vista with his brother out with a hyperextended knee.
The Rams went 25-5.
Gretkierewicz came in three years ago to lead the program.
"I can't thank Maricopa enough for the chance to lead the program the last three years," he said. "The players, administration, parents, and local media were a pleasure to work with.
"I am proud of where the program is now compared to when I took the job and I am excited to see the program continue to progress to new heights."
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To suggest human-interest story ideas and other news, reach Obert at richard.obert@arizonarepublic.com or 602-316-8827. Follow him on Twitter @azc_obert.
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