Rangers’ Ailing Coach Webster Resigns

Tom Webster resigned as coach of the New York Rangers Monday because of medical problems that limited him to 16 games behind the bench this season, the team said.

Webster, plagued by an inner ear disorder since December, notified Ranger General Manager Phil Esposito and Madison Square Garden Corp. President Richard Evans of his decision last week.

“I told Dick and Phil that I do not feel confident that these medical problems can be quickly and fully resolved before the beginning of next season,” Webster said. “Therefore I have asked to be relieved of my coaching duties.”

Evans said Webster will remain with the Rangers, assisting Esposito with the National Hockey League draft, scouting and other projects.

Webster, 38, was named the Rangers’ coach Nov. 26 after the team fired Ted Sator, who compiled a 5-10-4 record.

After undergoing surgery Dec. 24, Webster coached only home games for several weeks because his condition prevents him from flying. His health problems continued and he stopped coaching completely in late January.