A fine high school coach provides lessons of self-discipline, the work ethic, being a gentleman in winning and losing, adherence to rules, and total effort in practice and games. It is the responsibility of school personnel to judge a coach in that context with a coach’s record not being the only criterion used to judge performance. A coach must be judged by educators who know what a successful coach is and not be pressured by boosters and supporters who may not see the entire role of coaching within the total realm of education.

I don’t know the details of the case, but the dismissals of Terry Davis and Barbara Foxx are disappointing and a crushing blow to their contributions and dedication to Pinecrest High School.

Terry demanded that his basketball players carry themselves with dignity and pride. He was not a slave to the almighty theme of winning. If a player cut class or didn’t do work in the class, he would be disciplined regardless of the significance of the upcoming game. Terry never berated referees in a way to draw attention to himself.

Nobody has been more loyal, dedicated and child-centered than Barbara Foxx. She worked hard as an assistant and was rewarded with the head job in basketball. Along with her great achievements as a coach in volleyball and softball, she maintained the winning atmosphere in basketball. Barbara is and will always be an excellent basketball coach whether she is on the Pinecrest bench or not.

All that is great about sports evaporates when we are pressured and judged by the win-at-all-costs attitude that is so permeates at times. Whoever is responsible for this decision needs to remember that a good coach deserves to be supported through the rough times as well as being patted on the back during the good times. Barbara and Terry deserve genuine praise and support. Their record will not be forgotten by those who really understand the role of athletics in high school education.

Richard D. McDonald

Northern Durham High School

Durham

The length limit on letters was waived to permit a fuller discussion of the issue.