Appleton North coach steps down after historic season

Chris Kellett, who coached the Appleton North boys basketball team to its first Fox Valley Association title and first WIAA state tournament appearance this past season, is leaving the program.

Kellett announced on social media May 11 that he is stepping down as Lightning coach to spend more time with his family.

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“This decision to step away was not made because of a lack of appreciation or love for Appleton North,” Kellett wrote. “This program, the players, and this community mean a great deal to me. However, the time away from my family has taken a toll, and I feel it is important for me to be more present and invest in helping develop my own children. That priority has ultimately guided my decision.”

Chris Kellett is stepping down as boys basketball coach at Appleton North after leading the Lightning to the WIAA Division 1 state semifinals this past season.

Kellett took over a North program that had gone winless in its previous season and had won just eight games in the previous four seasons prior to his arrival.

North finished with a 24-5 record this past season, shared the FVA title with Kaukauna with a 16-2 record and advanced to the state semifinals before losing to eventual Division 1 state champion Wisconsin Lutheran 68-61 at the Kohl Center in Madison.

“Through determination, grit, and an unwavering commitment to one another, we transformed the program into a competitive force in the FVA,” Kellett wrote. “Together, we achieved milestones never before reached in North basketball – earning our first conference title and making our first trip to state. These accomplishments were no accident; they were the result of a group of young men who demanded the best of themselves and embraced the work required to succeed. I am incredibly proud of everything we achieved together.”