Strader Out at Russell

Sometimes I hate getting emails.  I got 2 today that made me kinda sad.  The first from Anna Chaffin the principal at Russell High School.  It read as follows:

Upon a mutual agreement, Jason Strader will not be returning as Head Boys’ Basketball Coach at Russell High School for the 2016-17 school year.  This decision was made at the year-end evaluation meeting with Mr. Strader.  Coach Strader was always a great role model for our student-athletes here at Russell High School and an impressionable ambassador for the Russell Independent School District.  We wish him and his wonderful family nothing but the best.

Then I got another just a bit later from Coach Strader:

I would like to thank Mr. Horne, Mrs. Chaffin and Mr. Sparks for the opportunity to lead the RHS boy’s basketball program this past season.  My family and I have the upmost respect for the RISD administration and the community, and we truly appreciate the support they have given us this year.  At the conclusion of the season, my sons expressed their wish to have me more involved in their academic and athletic activities moving forward.  I love coaching and have a strong passion for being in the gym year round to help kids improve their skills.  But I am a loving father first and foremost, and LaBryant and Jaylan’s happiness is very important to me.  After consulting with my wife and the administration, both parties agreed I would not return as the head coach of the boy’s basketball program.  This decision was based on what was in the best interest of my family and the RHS boy’s basketball program moving forward.  I thoroughly enjoyed my experience at Russell, and I feel strongly this program is on the cusp of returning to respectability in the 16th region.  I would like to thank my players for their effort on the floor, in the classroom, and in the community.  I was truly blessed to lead this group of fine young men during the 2015-16 season.

Sincerely,

Jason A Strader

I really like Coach Strader.  He was always a very positive man and a wonderful interview.   He is one of those rare coaches that show up for a post game show no matter if he won or lost by 50.  He was there because as he once told me he understands the benefit of radio.


Win/loss records don't always show success.  Jason Strader is a success because I personally feel he changed lives and attitudes in his player.


Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Why I Love Living in a Small Town

New Project

Game Changer