After a quarter-century, five state titles and nearly 600 victories, Jesuit soccer coach Bob Bauman is stepping back from the sideline and eyeing a spot on the bench.
The school announced Thursday evening Bauman has resigned as Tigers coach to pursue a judge position for Hillsborough Circuit Court, Group 34. Bauman, 53, works by day as an attorney with the Morris Law Firm of Tampa.
"I do not want my campaign to interfere with the potential success of Jesuit's soccer team," he said in a statement released by the school.
Bauman's tenure is virtually unmatched in local boys prep soccer circles. In 26 seasons, his program won 24 district titles, reached 15 final fours and won five state championships. His last title team, the 2001 club (30-2), also won a national title.
He steps away with a 571-124-69 mark at Jesuit and 581 overall career wins, including one season at Chamberlain. Quite literally, though, he may continue hovering over the program to a degree. His son Camden is a Jesuit freshman.
"It is with mixed emotions that I leave as head coach," Bauman said in the statement. "The Jesuit administration, faculty, parents and students have made me feel a part of this community for the past 26 years."