After a seven-year career at NHS, Athletic Director Michael Hasch is stepping down.

Hasch’s resignation was accepted by the Noblesville Schools school board at the Dec. 20 meeting. Hasch will officially leave the school on Jan. 3, and current Assistant Athletic Director Tony Oilar will step in as interim AD for the rest of the 2017 school year.

“[Hasch] wanted to wait until [his resignation] officially occurred on Tuesday at the school board meeting before he announced it to the coaches,” NHS Principal Jeff Bryant said, “but I’ve known for a little while.”

Hasch said that he began considering his decision near the beginning of December.

“Being the father of six girls tugs at you,” Hasch said. “When they have events or they have things going on, you feel like sometimes you’re here 24/7. I’m kind of stepping away [from the position] to be a dad for a while.”

With Hasch’s resignation taking place in the middle of the winter sports season, a new Athletic Director had to be found quickly. Oilar will fill in as interim director until Hasch’s replacement is found.

“I have a lot of faith in Mr. Oilar and what he can do,” Bryant said. “He’s been doing this a long time. He’s very experienced in running programs and running events, and I don’t think anyone will notice [any change] in that regard.”

Bryant said the interviewing process for the position will begin in the spring.

“We want to get someone in here that’s a visionary and that can lead our department,” Bryant said. “We want someone who’s dedicated to our students, [someone who] supports the same mission and vision that we support academically for our students.”

Although Bryant was aware of Hasch’s decision before the school board meeting this week, varsity head coaches were notified yesterday via email. Some coaches said the resignation was unexpected.

“It’s surprising,” head football coach and dean of students Jason Simmons said. “You know, I think any time something like that happens, especially in the middle of the school year, it is surprising.”

During his career at NHS, Hasch has also made a connection with many of the student athletes involved in the program.

“I’m sad to hear that Mr. Hasch is leaving,” senior soccer player Laney Riester said. “Although the athletic department will be going through a major change, I think the other athletic office staff members will be able to make it a smooth transition.”

“It’s going to be hard to get used to not having him around,” senior lacrosse player Elle Palmer said. “But the program itself will be in great hands with Mr. Oilar and will continue to grow and succeed.”

Hasch’s colleagues say he will be remembered for his contributions to the Millers’ athletic programs.

“He did a lot of great things in his seven or eight years here that we’re thankful for,” Simmons said.

Additional reporting by Abby Hanson, Taylor Crowe and Ethan Case

This story will be updated as additional information becomes available