TORONTO - Following 11 seasons, Nouri Ghazi announced he is stepping away as head coach of the Seneca Sting badminton program.

Ghazi leaves a legacy matched by few in the sport and is one of the most decorated coaches in the history of the Ontario Colleges Athletic Association.

The 2014-15 OCAA and Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association Coach of the Year guided the Sting to an astonishing 26 OCAA medals (seven gold, 10 silver, nine bronze) and nine CCAA medals (four gold, two silver, three bronze).

After gaining conference recognition during his early years coaching, Ghazi's team gained national prominence over the second half of his career with the Sting. Following three consecutive years of capturing a bronze medal (2012 to 2014), the Sting had six teams play for a national championship over the last three years.

This past season was Ghazi's most decorated as the Sting captured two national championships and a silver medal on home court.

An international certified referee, Ghazi will still be active in the club system and will continue to officiate at some of the top tournaments in the country.

Ghazi is looking for to spending more time with his family in the days and months ahead. The Sting wish Nouri well in all of his future endeavors.

The Sting open the competitive season in October with tryouts commencing the third week of September.

The search for a new head coach will begin immediately.

Source: Seneca College