Coaches throughout Mingo and Pike Counties have been gracious and forthcoming with news about their seasons and teams; with one exception, Pike County Central Head Coach John Chapman.
A head coach has many responsibilities, one of those, and perhaps the most important, is promoting their players. WDN has tried numerous times to speak with Chapman but with no response.
After practice Thursday, Chapman said he would only speak with the media once an appointment has been made.
“There will be no interview,” he strongly said.
However, one cannot make an appointment if the coach cannot be contacted.
These articles are not about the coaches. They are about the players that make up the squad who take the field every Friday night.
Principal David Rowe said he believes the team will be very successful this year.
“We have worked very hard to improve bodily strength,” he said. “I believe we will be very successful this season.”
But with no cooperation from Chapman, these deeds may go unnoticed. The Daily News has interviewed several head coaches in both counties including the “dean” of area coaches, Belfry High School’s Phillip Haywood and Matewan High’s Yogi Kinder.
The intent of these top coaches as well as others interviewed, have been to discuss their teams and upcoming seasons as well as what fans can expect.
The Daily News spoke with Pike County Superintendent Roger Wagner. He assured the paper the board supports WDN and said he thought that Chapman’s problem with the media had been “taken care of.” He plans to speak again with Chapman.
“I don’t think it was personal,” he said. “I do agree it should be about the boys.”
The Kentucky Football Tab is slated to be together Aug. 19. If nothing changes, Pike County Central may be omitted. WDN apologizes to the players, assistant coaches, parents and fans. It was never the paper’s intent to ignore any Pike County high school football team.
Post a Comment
