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Golden basketball coach John Anderson resigns amid investigation of 'mistreatment' of players

Golden High School head basketball coach John Anderson will officially resign from his position Friday amid an investigation into his alleged mistreatment of players on the team.

(EDITOR'S NOTE: This story has been updated to reflect that Anderson's resignation has now been confirmed.)

GOLDEN- Golden High School head basketball coach John Anderson has officially resigned from his position Friday amid an investigation into his alleged mistreatment of players on the team.

Anderson, one of the top boys' basketball coaches in the state, had been serving a suspension in light of complaints made about his treatment of student-athletes and 'inappropriate conduct'.

Sources first told 9NEWS Tuesday that Anderson was expected to resign, which has now been confirmed by the school district.

The Jeffco Public School District did leave open the possibility of Anderson returning as head coach in the future, should the 'issues be resolved'. He can reapply for the position after the completion of this season.

Golden High School Principal Brian Conroy initially received complaints about Anderson's conduct over the Thanksgiving break, according to Jeffco Public Schools Chief Communications Officer Diana Wilson. Wilson would not elaborate on the allegations that were made, but did say that the players were never in any sort of physical danger.

Wilson said Anderson's resignation is a controversial topic at the school, as he was "very popular with some players/parents, and unpopular with others".

During the break, Anderson was placed on administrative leave from coaching only. He is currently a physical education teacher at Golden High School, a position he will continue to hold.

The Jeffco School District opened an investigation into the complaints made against Anderson on Dec. 6. At this time, there are no criminal charges pending in this case, and the district says parents and players will not be involved with any more decisions in the immediate future, as the case is now being handled internally.

Golden assistant boys' basketball coach Tim Blodgett will continue to serve as the interim head coach in Anderson's absence. The Golden Demons are currently 7-2 on the season, and are ranked No. 2 in the 4A classification, according to the Colorado High School Activities Association poll.

Anderson's all-time record is 222-125-0, according to Max Preps. Golden reached the Final Four of the 4A state basketball tournament last year.

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