Harnum takes break from coaching, named interim Rider AD

Rider men's basketball head coach Don Harnum will temporarily relinquish his position as head coach of the Broncs to take over as the university's interim director of athletics, effective Sept. 1.

Curt Blake, Rider's director of athletics for 14 years, announced his retirement, effective Aug. 31.

The university announced both moves Monday.

Because he will have to step aside as the Broncs' head coach for the 2005-06 season, Harnum has endorsed assistant Tommy Dempsey to take his place on an interim basis. However, a decision regarding the head coach's position isn't expected until at least next week.

Click on the headline above for the press release.