Plank, 59, ominously said following the team's loss in the ArenaBowl championship game on Aug. 10 that he needed to evaluate his future. Coaching in Philadelphia for 7 months, he said, created a hardship on his family, which lives in Scottsdale, Ariz.
"We certainly understand Doug's view and respect his decision," Soul general manager Tom Goodhines said. "We appreciate all that he has done for this organization.
"Doug's character and integrity speaks for itself, and we thank him for helping get us back to championship-caliber football."
Offensive coordinator Clint Dolezel is the logical choice to replace Plank. Dolezel was the wizard behind the Soul's prolific offense and his bond with Dan Raudabaugh will be a key factor to getting the free-agent quarterback to return to Philadelphia.
The Soul brought in Plank, Dolezel and other coaches and had numerous roster changes after going 6-12 in 2011. Philadelphia responded by going 15-3, before getting thumped by the Arizona Rattlers in the ArenaBowl.
- Ed Barkowitz
