During a recent government meeting, parents and students from Skyview High School voiced serious concerns regarding the behavior of the school's baseball head coach, alleging a pattern of intimidation and bullying that has led to a significant decline in team morale and participation.
Josh Wong, a former coach and parent, opened the discussion by detailing his observations over the past two years, claiming that the head coach has consistently harassed and embarrassed players, contributing to the departure of over 15 students from the program. Wong noted that numerous parents have lodged complaints with school administration, but reported that responses have been inadequate, with officials merely stating they would \"monitor the situation.\"
Wong emphasized the detrimental impact of the coach's behavior on young athletes, stating, \"A coach cannot provide a positive environment, should not be coaching kids.\" He called for the immediate removal of the head coach by October 25, citing a lack of alignment with the values of social and emotional learning outlined in the district's job description for coaches.
Ethan French, a senior and former player, echoed Wong's sentiments, recounting his own negative experiences under the coach's leadership. French described the coach's style as more akin to a \"boot camp\" than a supportive training environment, leading him to quit the team. He criticized the coach for publicly humiliating players and fostering a culture of fear, stating, \"The head coach ruined my love for the sport.\"
Another student, Jay Swan, shared his frustrations regarding the coach's favoritism and lack of support for players. He recounted his own struggles to join the team, highlighting the coach's failure to assist him in clearing necessary paperwork, which he felt was indicative of a broader issue of neglect and bias.
The testimonies from Wong, French, and Swan paint a troubling picture of the current state of the Skyview baseball program, raising urgent questions about the coaching practices and the administration's response to parental and student concerns. The community is now calling for decisive action to ensure a safe and positive environment for young athletes.