After a decade at the helm, Dave Callahan has stepped down as the Rumson-Fair Haven girls basketball head coach, a decision he shared with the Asbury Park Press on Friday. Callahan, who has been a part of the Bulldogs' community for 16 years, met with his players earlier that day to break the news, citing family commitments and a need for fresh energy as his reasons for leaving.

"I love what I do, love the school, I love this team," Callahan said. "As I got a little bit older and—family, missing holidays, missing a lot with my grandkids—I just needed to step back and make sure I was able to give the kids 100% and give them everything they deserved. After I really thought about it, prayed about it, I just realized it was time to get a fresh face, get fresh energy back in the program."

This past season, the Bulldogs closed out with a strong 19-11 record, claiming the 41st annual Kevin Williams Christmas Classic Tournament title and making a memorable appearance in the Central Group 2 final. Over his 10-year tenure with the girls' team, Callahan led them to five sectional championship games and compiled an impressive 177-98 overall record. He remains optimistic about the program's future, predicting the Bulldogs will "have a great year" and pose a "great challenge for Group 2 next season."

When asked about his favorite memories or accomplishments, Callahan's response was heartfelt: "Too many to mention. I've had so many great kids and great players, I haven't really taken the time to reflect on that. We've won so many huge games and been in so many great environments, but what I'm going to miss most is the relationships."

The Connecticut native and Villanova graduate reflected on his deep roots in the community, noting that the first group of boys he coached are now in their early 30s, getting married and starting families. "I will always have those relationships," he added, "but I'm sure when the season starts I'm going to miss that energy of a big game and not being around on an everyday basis."

Don't worry, though—Callahan isn't stepping away from basketball entirely. He plans to continue running the summer league at The Fort in Oceanport, ensuring he stays connected to the game he loves while passing the torch to a new leader for the Bulldogs.