Unanswered questions: Why was a beloved Racine coach let go?

RACINE (WITI) -- He's considered one of the greatest coaches in Wisconsin high school sports' history -- and now he's out of a job. Hundreds turned out in support of Racine St. Catherine's basketball coach Bob Letsch Monday, May 12th, marching in protest around the school.

Letsch has been with St. Cat's for more than 30 years, but over the weekend the two parted ways. The decision has rocked community members and school alum.

"I couldn't believe it. I thought it was a joke at first when I heard it," said Mike Schiro. "I'm going to tell them right now, I've been here, an Angel donater for the last 17 years, this would be the last year they're going to get a donation from me."

"You're taking the future away because of what, politics?" asked Letsch supporter Judy Rasmussen. "Whether he's employed here or not, he will be St. Cat's."

Letsch, a St. Catherine's alum himself, took over as the head basketball coach in 1979, winning eight state titles during his tenure. Letsch also brought the school six state baseball titles.

"It wasn't all about basketball. He really cared about you as a person," said Jake Thomas, who played for Letsch before going on to play for Marquette. "If you weren't a student athlete, he felt the same way about you. He felt the same way about every student at St. Cat's, whether you played basketball or not."

FOX6 reached out to St. Catherine's for comment, but no calls were returned.

"You don't just say 'out the door.' Give me a reason," said Schiro.

FOX6 also stopped by Letsch's home, but no one was available. Calls to the coach were also unreturned.