Published Sunday, July 20, 2008 6:05 AM
Coaches' supporters say abuse claims false
Bryan High School softball coaches have remained tight-lipped since a group of parents told school trustees last week that staff members had mistreated players.
But athletes and parents who support the coaches dismissed the allegations as false and said involving the school board was reckless.
Angela Lara, whose two teenage daughters play softball at Bryan High School, said she was furious when she heard that parents had spoken before the board Monday.
"They absolutely took it too far," she said. "I have never had a problem with any coach."
Calls and e-mails to the six softball coaches were not returned last week.
District spokeswoman Sandy Farris said the coaches would not comment on the allegations because of student privacy issues.
"The position they're in, it's not appropriate for them to comment," Farris said. "That's an issue between students, teachers, parents and coaches."
The parents' allegations had been fully investigated, she said, before the issue was taken to the board.
If trustees request further investigation, Farris said, administrators will comply.
Trustee Douglas Wunneburger said the board would investigate the parents' concerns.
"We only have half the story so far," he said. "We do plan to meet with the coaches at some point."
Board members couldn't respond to the comments because the issue wasn't on the agenda.
"It wasn't a five-minute comment, it was four people making a 20-minute presentation," he said of the meeting. "I think those things shouldn't have been aired in public."
Paul Keiper, a Texas A&M University clinical assistant professor of sport management, said it's common for parents to challenge coaches' behavior. What's difficult, he said, is determining whether an offense occurred.
No matter what, Keiper said, an athletic director should take parents' allegations seriously.
Making a case
Four parents spoke out during the public comment section of Monday's regular school board meeting against several softball coaches. The coaches were not named in the public comments, in accordance with board rules.
The parents said a coach had told two students not to come to class for the remaining month of school. Parents said coaches had told students that they would fix their grades and attendance records if they agreed not to come to class.
A seven-page booklet distributed by parents the night of the meeting accuses coaches of cursing at players, ridiculing students in front of their peers, punishing players unjustly and "showing clear favoritism to some players and clear disdain for others."
In the booklet, the parents detailed specific instances in which they believed that their daughters had been mistreated.
It concludes by stating: "We are demanding wholesale changes of the coaches in the softball program, again, with the exception of assistants, Coaches [Cody] Foreman and [Aimee] Petroski."
Head Coach Enrique Luna just completed his first year as head of the school's softball program. Varsity Assistant Coach Kelly Batson, junior varsity Assistant Coach Rae Ann Watson and JV Silver Coach Ben Gallego were also named in the allegations. Gallego left the program recently.
Bryan finished third in District 13-5A and reached the area round of the Class 5A playoffs in Luna's first season. The Lady Vikings finished with a 21-13 record.
Six parents signed a letter in June asking for the coaches' dismissal, listing the recent allegations and others.
In an e-mailed response to parents two weeks later, Bryan High School Athletic Director Harry Francis wrote that he had investigated and talked with coaches at length about the concerns.
"After speaking with our staff, some situations could have been handled differently and [we] feel that those types of situations are very correctable," he wrote.
When contacted by The Eagle this week, Francis said coaches, parents and players had offered conflicting accounts. He declined to comment further.
A fine line
Since Monday's meeting, Farris said, she has received numerous calls and e-mails expressing support for the coaches and the program.
Angela Lara's daughter, Kristin Lara, said she thought coaches had treated all players equally. She graduated from Bryan High School in May and played softball throughout high school.
"None of that stuff was true," she said. "The coaches are fair. If you did something good, they would reward you. If you did something bad, they wouldn't let it slide."
Being criticized by coaches has made her cry, Lara said. But it's not their fault.
"I don't like being yelled at, and I hate messing up," she said. "All of us are criticized. Some people take it better than others."
The bottom line, A&M's Keiper said: Coaching is tough.
In addition to coaching girls and boys high school sports, Keiper has worked as a high school athletic director for 12 years. He now works for the Department of Health and Kinesiology.
Methods and philosophies of coaching vary, he said. Ultimately, a coach's job is to determine what motivates each player to do his or her best.
If players believe in their coach, Keiper said, they can accept criticism as part of helping them improve.
"It's a fine line of where it goes too far," he said. "It's tough."
As a general rule, Keiper said, when a student no longer wants to play a sport because of a coach, it means the coach has probably done a poor job of motivating that student.
"Every coach will make mistakes," he said. "When kids don't want to play anymore, that's when you've lost it."
Recent Bryan High School graduates and former varsity softball players Michelle Stratta and Calli Wood said they supported the coaches and thought the parents' allegations were unfounded.
"I think he's a great coach," Wood said of Luna. "He's pretty tough."
Both said the staff members were friends as well as coaches.
Even a year from now when she's in college, Stratta said, she'd feel comfortable contacting Luna.
"I could pick up the phone and call him for advice any time," she said
Trustee and board Vice President Maritza Pena Hoffman said members had asked school officials to present their side of the issue. She said it's important that the issue be resolved quickly.
"Ultimately, my concern is for our athletes," she said. "I want to do what's best for everybody involved."
• Janet Phelps' e-mail address is janet.phelps@theeagle.com.
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164 comment(s) found!
Posted by: On: 8/6/2008
Comment Title:
It's how you play at the end, who you draw in the playoffs (if they are hot or not), etc. Lots of intangibles. Look at the AAAAA champion - Alvin - they were 4th place and won the state championship. they got hot at the right time.
Posted by: On: 8/6/2008
Comment Title:
The point they were making was that it's who plays the best in the Playoffs that matters. Lots of teams go undefeated in district and lose the first round, it's how you play at the end.
Posted by: Go vikes........ we're #3 On: 8/6/2008
Comment Title:
six years ago. different team. different coach.
Posted by: On: 8/5/2008
Comment Title:
And Bryan still went farther in the playoffs than anyone else in the District which in the end is what matters. If you remember in 2002 Bryan was second in district and got swept by Cy-Fair who I think had never beaten them before. Oh the horror. When playoffs ended Cyfair had the coveted District championship and Bryan had a gold medal and the rings. Yep, thats the ticket.
Posted by: Go vikes.......we're # 3 On: 8/5/2008
Comment Title:
uhhhhh.... yeah, they caught a couple of brakes, uhhh... they got lucky, yeah that's the ticket. we're better than they are, they just got lucky... and so did Belton, of course theyare always good.... well not good.... but they are lucky..... yeah that's the ticket..... they're all lucky exceopt us.... and they are lucky 2 or 3 times in a row. we are better than they are they just get lucky for 2 or 3 games and beat us and it looks like they are better than we are.... but really we're the best.... yeah that's the ticket.......
Posted by: On: 8/5/2008
Comment Title:
Maybe Consol was better than Bryan this year? Maybe they had two better games than Bryan this year? Maybe they had more luck this year? The girls play the game, not the coaches. The coaches get them prepared and then the girls play the game. Consol played very well and got a couple of big breaks that helped. That occurs in all sports.
Posted by: On: 8/5/2008
Comment Title:
It may be because of those 3 girls that everyone says are such poor players. No, my bad, they weren't on the field when Consol kicked the lady vikes tails. Maybe it was the coaching change. Or maybe the lady vikes weren't quite as good as some of the posters below seem to think they are.
Posted by: On: 8/5/2008
Comment Title:
Yeah consol sweaping bryan is unusual, so there must be a reason for us being able to beat them last year and not this year. Well the only thing I can think of would be the coaching change.
Posted by: On: 8/5/2008
Comment Title:
well I have 2 dogs, and the sun is shining on both of their butts right now...and it's a cloudy day. So...
Posted by: On: 8/5/2008
Comment Title:
No I'm saying Consol sweeping Bryan is like the sun shining on a dogs butt. It doesn't happen very often.
Posted by: On: 8/4/2008
Comment Title:
r u calling coach luna a dogs butt?
Posted by: On: 8/4/2008
Comment Title:
HaHaHa. Thats real funny. You know the old saying "The sun even shines on a dogs butt sometimes"
Posted by: On: 8/3/2008
Comment Title: we're # 3
Third place in a very weak district. It sounds like the starters can't play either. And they call the other girls loosers? The lady vikes are lucky the Consol girls don't have them cleaning their rooms for them over the summer
Posted by: On: 7/30/2008
Comment Title:
If these allegations are found to be false and the board clears them are you are you all that are complaining gonna accept it and move on are will you continue to claim foul play and conspiracy theories and keep bringing it up every few years?
Posted by: On: 7/28/2008
Comment Title:
Lets not forget about that little Board investigation before we sweep this away, right. Or just declare in done and Corrected.
Posted by: On: 7/28/2008
Comment Title:
Now that the loved ones on both sides of the fence have come here to their defense, isn't it time now that the Eagle take down this webpage of the Hatfields and McCoys before the BHS softball program is destroyed.
Posted by: On: 7/28/2008
Comment Title: Certification and Degrees
Speaking of teacher certification and degrees in general within the state of Texas, I would like to state that it is a common practice to have teachers and coaches in schools without proper teacher certification. I learned of this when I worked at a school and worked for a certification office. Often teachers get originally hired as aides, and then eventually fill a position that becomes full-time teacher. Also, coaches usually want to coach but have to teach a subject as well to fill a position for the school. The fact that a person does not have certification does not necessarily mean they are incompetent. If they were considered incompetent then it is the fault of the person(s) who hired them. I don't know Enrique Luna, or his experience in teaching/coaching, so some might think I should keep this to myself, but for all the immature and disrespectful comments on here by people who probably don't know him as well, I figured my comment deserved to be on here just as much as anyone else's.
Posted by: Julie Pineda On: 7/27/2008
Comment Title: My boyfriend
First of all I think it's pretty pathetic for people to go on here and continually bash Enrique Luna! He's not a sex offender and for you guys to come on here and say things like that makes me sick. Second of all I am Julie Pineda, Enrique Luna's girlfriend! Enrique never has dated any of the mothers or the players! If you even knew anything about Enrique you would know how false all of these things are! Third, Enrique may not have a teacher certification or have his degree but his is more the certified by the state of TEXAS to be a head coach! And he also was trained by Janice Williamson who's the best there is to offer at BHS or anywhere else! People need to focus on the real situation at hand and stop accusing my boyfriend of anything other then what he's always done and that's be a wonderful coach and person! So I ask you all to grow up and stop looking at him in this way because frankly you guys make me sick and you guys are VERY PETTY! Learn some manners!
Posted by: On: 7/27/2008
Comment Title: Players that Coach used to date
Was the player he used to date who later played a year at Sam Houston in the late 90's named Ida something????
Posted by: On: 7/27/2008
Comment Title: Midget Wrestling coach
I heard that the Bryan Athletic Director was considering making Luna the midget wrestling coach because of his prison background...Word around town is that he dates players moms so he can throw gloves at their kids????
Posted by: Will K. On: 7/27/2008
Comment Title:
I read this article then saw all the stupid comments....who cares? People who post a comment everyday get a freakin life.
Posted by: Russ Ford On: 7/27/2008
Comment Title: Answer to previous question
It has been called to my attention by several people following this story that one writer on this site feels that my daughter would be interested in the head coaching position at Bryan High. I was unaware that the position is currently vacant? My daughter has been given a great opportunity to become the head coach of a 5A high school in East Texas. A program as successful as Bryan High Softball should be able to find a coach with Head Coaching experience. If we were able to afford it I would recommend the guy from Brenham be considered since this would be a move up for a very successful Head coach from 4A to 5A. Unfortunately anyone who has spoken to my daughter, as two of the former softball moms did earlier this year. realize that her husband has a very high paying position in East Texas and she is unavailable for BHS now or in the foreseeable future. I have never mentioned her as an available coach for the position that was never posted publicly when Coach Williamson was promoted. The offer I made publicly to the Bryan ISD School Board and Superintendent was that she and my younger daughter would be willing to detail for them their experience at Bryan High as players. By making that offer it was assumed by all that she would probably never be considered for a position in the district since if asked to detail her experience she would be a whistle blower. My family made a decision that since our involvement in the program would only be as supporters, if asked we would give detailed information to the administration that might limit future athletes from being subjected to situations that reflect poorly on our City, School System, and the entire Brazos Valley. We as parents have sat by too long watching other people's kids treated badly without speaking out. I praise the people who have shown the courage to speak up on both sides of this issue. Please allow the school board to check into the situation. If the current staff remains in place at least discussion this may prevent some kid in the future from being treated in a manner that any certified teacher with a college degree knows is inappropriate. Attacking each other merely takes the focus away from the problems that have been occurring in our softball program.
Posted by: On: 7/27/2008
Comment Title:
does enrique have a college degree? if he does not, he shouldn't be employed as either a coach or a teacher. guess bryan high is now employing staff utilizing the highly qualified individuals in the national sex offenders registry.
Posted by: KL On: 7/27/2008
Comment Title: and you can't put your name why??
so just because i actually step up and say something back to the losers who want to down everybody else, i get talked about?? and why dont you come say it TO ME. dont be scared to say your name. since you're so big and bad and want to talk crap on here. oh, and don't worry. i won't "hurt" myself patting myself on the back. i'll make sure of it.
Posted by: On: 7/26/2008
Comment Title:
I don't see how this is "good business" for the eagle. They don't get paid by the comment. That having been said, that one comment is way out of line. He knows that youngsters are interested in this issue and are likely to read it.
Posted by: On: 7/26/2008
Comment Title:
Either way I hope it is not swept under the rug. It needs to be looked into and the truth needs to come out, for both sides. That vulgar comment proves that. That looks like an attempt at intimdation, or an attempt to get the blog taken down by using vugarity. It looks like that guy knows there is something to hide.
Posted by: On: 7/26/2008
Comment Title:
The Eagle is leaving this up because it is good business for them, not because there is something to it. The paper is in this for themselves, not to find the truth.
Posted by: On: 7/26/2008
Comment Title:
It is obvious The Eagle thinks there is something to this or they would not have left it up so long. I hope there reporters look into BHS softball. after this blows over, and is swept under the rug.
Posted by: On: 7/26/2008
Comment Title:
I don't think that was Coach J that posted that vulgar remark, but it does give you an idea of what type of people you are up against when you speak out about what you thin is unfairness. Profanity, vulgarity, personal attacks, juvenile behavior. If you don"t have a strong arguement, use strong words. Again, this is type of mentality that surrounds BHS softball.
Posted by: On: 7/26/2008
Comment Title:
well coach J has finally spoken, though a little profanely.
Posted by: On: 7/26/2008
Comment Title:
The Parents or P*&@#*@ comments need to go!! I hope the Luna supports (which I am one of) will not stoop to the depths of using f bombs and other curse words to show support for him. Keep it clean and your words will show strength. Show support the way you just did and it could hurt. Support in the right way.
Posted by: On: 7/26/2008
Comment Title:
I hope you don't hurt yourself trying to think these things up as you post them. A brain injury can be devastate your life! Go away all your doing is acting like an idiot!
Posted by: On: 7/26/2008
Comment Title:
I hope that one Lara girl doesn't hurt her shoulder patting herself on the back. A shoulder injury can devastate a softball carreer.
Posted by: On: 7/26/2008
Comment Title: he has a girlfriend
Oh and by the way his girlfriend is NOT MS. Lara! Goes to show how much these people ACTUALLY know Enrique Luna because if you did you would know who his girlfriend is....but seeing how you DON'T know who his girlfriend is you are TRUELY not in this matter! So just excuse yourself! People will try to throw stones at each other over NOTHING! And that's exactly what this is! Ms. Lara is not dating the Coach and the Lara girls are some dang good softball players! Also, there are reasons why Enrique's girlfriend cannot say things on here or put her name behind anything. That is because all YOU people would bash her and continue on with this whole thing! Just know that he's well taken care of and not by Ms. Lara! GO VIKES!
Posted by: On: 7/26/2008
Comment Title: He has a girlfriend
First of all Enrique's dating habits do not apply to this article or the way he does his job. FYI he has a GIRLFRIEND and they are VERY HAPPY TOGETHER! Stop talking about things that have no concern here or that are irrelevant to this discussion!
Posted by: On: 7/26/2008
Comment Title: To Player
Way to say it player!!!! Finally!!!!!We applaud you!!
Posted by: On: 7/26/2008
Comment Title: Get your dates right
Ms. Lara and her daughter posted on the 25th, duh.......... read the dates!!!!!
Posted by: player On: 7/26/2008
Comment Title:
KL:You are an awesome softball player. I'm surprised that you ween't named All Northern Hemisphere. It looks like softball started the day you picked up a bat. In fact if there had been anyone else on the team who worked half as hard or played half as well as you maybe we would have been second in district instead of third. I can't wait to see evidence of your awesomeness when you get to college. They may put sofball back in the olympics just so the world can see you play. Go Vikes.....we're #3 we're #3 we're #3
Posted by: On: 7/26/2008
Comment Title:
Ms. Lara hasn't posted comment since the 20th. Thats almost a whole week. Unlike all you folks that talk crap and have NEVER put your name. More excuses and attempts to distract from the issue that the accusers have no validity and it's coming out.
Posted by: On: 7/26/2008
Comment Title:
You think this has only been a problem this past year? HAHAHA! wow you people are slow.
Posted by: On: 7/25/2008
Comment Title:
The Laras are right about all district selections. The head coach nominates his or her players and the rest of the coaches do the voting. The coach that nominates cannot vote for his or her own player. I see that Bryan had a lot of girls make all-district, so the coach must have nominated a lot of his players, so where is the favoritism? I don't see it.
Posted by: On: 7/25/2008
Comment Title: You should be ashamed of showing your name.
okay wait, these people have no lives...seriously? well at least they are not replying to every comment that is against the coach, who you are defending. It just seems to me like you are sitting at your computer replying to anything that is said against what you think or about you. So you and your daughters can talk about these girls and throw out accusations that they skip and fail when one of your daughters admited to skipping on television. I have read both articles and most of the comments. You have posted many, not one or two, but alot of comments. So I believe it is you who should get a life.
Posted by: On: 7/25/2008
Comment Title:
Quit bashing MS Lara. BHS and the softball program encourages parental involvement.
Posted by: On: 7/25/2008
Comment Title:
Maybe he doesn't work at Blockbusters. maybe he just hangs out there.
Posted by: On: 7/25/2008
Comment Title:
Seriously, he works at Blockbuster? How lame is that?
Posted by: Angela Lara On: 7/25/2008
Comment Title:
Oh and one last thing, it's MS. LARA, not MRS. Get it straight! Guess it shows you don't know what you are talking about, huh?! It's pretty sad when my 18 yr old daughter has to defend herself and her mother to someone who doesn't have the nerve to say who they are. You seriously need to grow up and get a life, you obviously don't have one or it's a pretty boring one that you have to use my life to entertain yourself and others who think like you. Shame on you!
Posted by: kristin lara On: 7/25/2008
Comment Title: sick and tired of it
as far as i'm concerned, i did not work hard all year to hear people say that the only reason i got playing time and got all district was because my mother was dating coach luna. thats crap. i EARNED every minute of playing time i got this past season and no one is going to tell me different. and as for my sister, shes AMAZING at softball. we got playing time because we deserved it. and as for us getting all district because of coach luna, do you not know how the process of that works?? our coach only NOMINATES players. he doesn't decide the whole all district team himself! other coaches voted for us. so get your facts straight. and my mother and coach luna DO NOT DATE. i still do not see why people feel the need to say that. i really don't. has anyone EVER seen them out together much less TALK to each other?! didn't think so. and my family wants to defend coach luna, its because we feel that he is in the right. there was no abuse and yall know it. why do yall continue to blame him for things yall did?? i just dont get it AT ALL. he is a good coach and he dedicated himself to this program and for what.. to hear crap from upset parents and players that they didn't get enough playing time or because they were mistreated and abused?? the team knows what the punishment is for missing practice because at one point, we had to do it too. so how can you dare say that there was favoritism? i know for a fact there wasn't. not once did i see someone get out of something because they were a so called "favorite". everyone had to do it and just because you can't handle it, its not coach luna's fault. so how about everyone just stops making these little comments about my family and i on here and finally get the nerve and say it to our faces. i really wish yall would. i'd be happy to tell each and every one of these accusers how i really feel and what i really think. and to everyone that is supporting coach luna, i applaud you. we both know whats really going on here and we're stopping it.
Posted by: Angela Lara On: 7/25/2008
Comment Title:
The comments about my personal life are no concern to you(the person who keeps posting about my dating Coach Luna)! As I have said before, I am not dating him, no one has ever seen us out together, I know that because it has NEVER happened. The reason those comments are removed is because I still have 2 daughters that will be attending Bryan High and this type of crap does not need to be thrown at them! I dont need to explain to you why I was the one on the news and in the paper, but since you continue to think I'm the only one who is in support of the coaches, Not just one coach, I will explain to you! Our daughters, my daughters were not the only one who spoke up if you know how to read correctly, wanted to speak out on their own. They contacted ABC 40 and set up the interview and the Eagle was called also so that the other side would be told. Both interviews were done at the same day and time. I was the only parent that could be there with our daughters, since we did not want them doing this alone. I was asked by each of the reporters for a comment and so I gave one. Now, if you want to keep thinking that I am the only parent that supports the coaches, go right ahead, but you will see that you are WRONG! My daughters made all district because they earned it and deserved it. One daughter broke a school record and the other well let me just say, you can just look at her stats to see that she is an awesome ball player! I would love for you to come to me and say what you have to say! Quit posting crap if you cant put your name, what are you scared of?! I'm sure you know where to find me since you think you know so much about me.
Posted by: On: 7/25/2008
Comment Title:
You are correct about parents and their kids. Thats a problem with the softball staff - only a couple of the softball coaches have that knowledge and they have a better understanding.
Posted by: On: 7/25/2008
Comment Title:
If you are telling the truth you never have to worry about being attacked because facts will withstand scrutiny. When people are afraid to be attacked it usually means there are no facts to back up their assertions. When it comes to my kids I would do ANYTHING to protect them, even if it means people might "say mean things about me" and I sure wouldn't be "afraid". Thats just me though I guess. I would have never allowed my kids to be "abused".
Posted by: On: 7/25/2008
Comment Title:
"Man accused of locking up woman" from yesterdays Eagle, just another single guy with rap sheet hanging around young girls right, need to check that one out, makes you wander?
Posted by: On: 7/25/2008
Comment Title:
I fail to see how the coaches dating habits are relevant to this. Well maybe they aren't actually habits, but you get the idea. What he does during his free time is his own business. Unless it interfers with his objectivity, then it could be a problem. But then we have been assured numerous times that he is absolutly fair.
Posted by: Dot to Dot to Dot On: 7/25/2008
Comment Title:
I have to agree with "Truth hitting close to home"...Why can the other parents who were verbally bombarbed about their ethics and parenting comments remain on the site but when the truth about the relationship between Mrs. Lara and the coach are noted, this is being removed from viewers. This is only fair and freedom of speech. Just as she had said her peace about the situation, sit back and let others give theirs. Amen.
Posted by: On: 7/25/2008
Comment Title: Softball Dad?
spin it however you want. You make vicious attacks on kids based on hwat you admit you only heard, not verified, then get indignant when someone makes vicious attacks on grownups based on what they have heard. Still a double standard no matter how you try to dodge it.
Posted by: On: 7/25/2008
Comment Title: Truth HITTING to close to HOME
Why do the comments of Ms. Lara dating the coach continue to be taken down. The comments that were intially brought about on the first three sets of parents and families are still on the site. Both her daughters made all district. Everyone wants and THINKS there child is the best and wants them to succceed but dating the coach has went a bit to far. She was the one who went to the press stated there were 2 sides of the story, and now that one of the sides is being addressed they are quickly being retracted!! No favortism, yeah right.
Posted by: On: 7/25/2008
Comment Title:
Yea, people never stood up because they were afriad of being attacked.
Posted by: On: 7/25/2008
Comment Title:
There is a reason why people never stood up till these people said something. Someone finally stood up.
Posted by: On: 7/24/2008
Comment Title:
Isn't the older daughter of one of the ring leaders a head softball coach herself? Is there another motive here. Hmmmmmmm. Nobody would go that low? I hope not.
Posted by: On: 7/24/2008
Comment Title:
if I was one of the softball coaches in the area, I would definitely not do interviews for this crock of a newspaper when softball season starts next year. If the Bryan and Consol coach would boycott, then the paper would have to run to them to apologize so they can get stories to fill their 10 page paper that costs the same as the Dallas paper but with only 5% of the news. They only care about Bryan and Consol anyway, so if the coaches would do them the same as they do the coaxhes,maybe they willcome to their senses. No, never mind -- this is the same paper that was ga ga over Fran and then ran him out of town.
Posted by: Softball DAD On: 7/24/2008
Comment Title:
No one would have ever said a word about anybody until these folks started accusing people of abusing kids and conveniently the paper one of them's grandfather works for just happened to be there. Then when someone points out that possible lack of creditability of the accusers then it's not fair. Standards that the parents set. I also like how you skirted the question about grades. "The three girls in question were apparently UIL eligible the entire season, suited up and on-the field with their respective teams." and yet I did not say they were ineligible during the season I said that 2 supposedly failed the last 6 wks which would not have made them ineligible during the season. So obviously the "rumor" was probably true. Try and spin it however you want, the truth will come out and our community will be better off with these people publicly discredited. God help us until them.
Posted by: On: 7/24/2008
Comment Title:
Yep, you can make viscious remarks about kids, based on what you have heard, but don't want people to make viscious remarks about the coaches, based on what they have heard. I think I see the double standard. Thanks for pointing it out.
Posted by: Softball DAD On: 7/24/2008
Comment Title:
Not complaining, just pointing out the double standard.
Posted by: On: 7/24/2008
Comment Title: in regards to plenty of good dating
Wow, you guys must really be desperate and know the investigation is not going your way. Thats an absurd statement and shows the quality of people that are making these accusations. Close this blog because there is no longer discussion going on. It sadly has become a place for cowards and idiots to spout off stuff I'm sure they would never have the guts to say in public.
Posted by: On: 7/24/2008
Comment Title:
If I had a kid who didn't play so well but wanted some playing time, I would be defending coach Luna. That would make my kid play better, get more playing time, plus I then would have the right to say something about the way the program is run.
Posted by: On: 7/24/2008
Comment Title:
So softball dad, you are just repeating what you have heard, and complaining that other people are repeating what they have heard? Sounds logical to me.
Posted by: On: 7/23/2008
Comment Title:
Has anyone else seen the new scoreboard at the football staduim? That thng is SWEET!! Two thumbs up to the person who pitched that.
Posted by: On: 7/23/2008
Comment Title: Full Support
Amen! One person, who is probably a parent of a kid who didnt play as much as they would have liked to in high school (just like the parents trying to get rif of Luna) says FIRE FRANCIS!! Give me a break. Quit living your life in the past and through your kids. I know Harry personaly and I am in full support of everything he is doing.
Posted by: VIKINGS FAN On: 7/23/2008
Comment Title: I Agree
I agree with a previous comment. Harry Francis is a great man and athletic director. He is handling this the best way possible. The only thing he hasnt done is convince these parents their kids arent very good and they need to live with it...and from the looks of things that will never happen. Keep up the great work Coach Francis
Posted by: On: 7/23/2008
Comment Title:
Let it go, close this down. This is helping no one. Investigate the claims, see what went on, react accordingly. The Eagle needs to close this thread.
Posted by: Softball DAD On: 7/23/2008
Comment Title:
I do not have inside info from any employee's. Kids talk and if you take the time to listen to them you can learn about lots of other peoples kids also. I said it was "my understanding" because that was what lots of he kid are saying among many other things much more serious than failing classes. Also from going to games and seeing who's there and who's not people ask and again kids talk. I never said it was a fact but your reaction confirmed it probably was. I guess since you people like to believe what you "heard" so readily without verification you assume everybody else will. I simply put forth info pertinent to the discussion like so many on here have. I guess it wasn't on the side you want.
Posted by: On: 7/23/2008
Comment Title:
If they released confidential information on those girls, that is really underhanded. Talk about retalitation. I don't guess they will be "good" enough to play next year either.
Posted by: Another BHS parent On: 7/23/2008
Comment Title: TO THE "BHS DAD"
It is incredible that you apparently have access to private information concerning BHS students. First of all, if you have, then you sir, along with the BISD employee who gave this to you, are in violation of the law. This information is available only to certain BISD employees (teachers/coaches), and the families of the students in question. So, where did you get your information? The three girls in question were apparently UIL eligible the entire season, suited up and on-the field with their respective teams, so, if you are correct, then Luna has violated the UIL and State mandated regulations as to eligibility, and should be fired if this is the case. If you are not correct, then you have no business disseminating this 'understanding' to the Public in this thread, or anywhere else for that matter. It seems that the issues are not centered on 'eligibility', but rather Coaches misconduct in several areas, including an alleged fixing of grades and attendance records in relation to the class over which they had responsibility. This is an awful lot of smoke to not have some 'fire' here somewhere, and should be investigated, along with what now appears to be an issue of BISD employees illegally disseminating private information to the public through people such as 'BHS Dad'.
Posted by: On: 7/23/2008
Comment Title:
with all the intererst in this article, it looks like there may be something to it besides just sensationalism. It certainly hit more than one nerve. maybe it is bringing out some flaws in the system. Maybe the Eagle should do some more invetigating into the process parties on either side of an issue should use to get their concerns addressed.
Posted by: Nobody On: 7/23/2008
Comment Title: Class
Oh, now I wouldn't go so far as to accuse KBTX of having class. They do plenty of sensationalist and inaccurate reporting, even if they've stayed above the fray on this topic.
Posted by: On: 7/23/2008
Comment Title:
It doesn't matter whether it is Bryan, Consol, Rudder, Navasota, Caldwell, Snook, Hearne, etc. The Eagle will find anything negative it can about the schools and make them look as bad as possible. It sells newspapers and generates hits on their website which enables them to make more money off of advertising. Its just like ABC 40, nobody watches them, so they needed this story so they could get more viewers. KBTX has much more class because they stayed out of this issue.
Posted by: On: 7/22/2008
Comment Title: GO HARRY!!!
Enrique Luna is a great person and coach, and Harry Francis is a great man and athletic driector. Parents just need to accept that their kids arent as GREAT as they think they are.
Posted by: BHS Dad On: 7/22/2008
Comment Title:
It is my understanding that two of the three girls failed the last six weeks and 1 failed 3 classes. Doesn't sound like to "fixin" going on.
Posted by: THE TRUTH On: 7/22/2008
Comment Title: Would this be posted if it was Consol?
I bet if this was being written about Consol. it would have been off the blog long ago. Everyone associated with Bryan should cancel their newspaper tomorrow....Don't say this does not happen over there. They go through softball and volleyball coaches like every other year....
Posted by: On: 7/22/2008
Comment Title:
why cant we all just get along
Posted by: On: 7/22/2008
Comment Title: What Investigation?
There are very good coaches and teachers at BISD, none of whom would put up with another teacher or coach fixing grades, attendance or endangering a child. If these coaches don’t have anything to hide then they should speak out. Harry Francis said "coaches, parents and players had offered conflicting accounts" and that his investigation was complete. Somebody needs to tell Harry Francis that when sides have different stories that is the beginning of an investigation, not the end.
Posted by: On: 7/22/2008
Comment Title:
Yes, the truth is usually in the middle and the school board will find it and deal with it in this mess. They are our representatives and are responsible for our tax money and our kids, whether it is in athletics or academics. They will investigate both sides of this mess and deal with it as needed. I trust them to do the right thing, since now both sides need the truth to come out. The truth reported pubicly and clearly is the only thing that will clear this mess up.
Posted by: On: 7/22/2008
Comment Title: Truth
Come on folks...everyone knows the truth is usually in the middle. The only ones who really know are the parties. Any thing else is just speculation.Most of thse comments sound narrow-minded.
Posted by: On: 7/22/2008
Comment Title:
fire Luna
Posted by: On: 7/22/2008
Comment Title:
This comments section is poison to the whole community, it gives voice to radicals and crazies.. please stop this trash talk .
Posted by: On: 7/22/2008
Comment Title:
The "abuse" aspect consisted of making them run make-ups for class they missed like all players have to do.
Posted by: Rodney K On: 7/22/2008
Comment Title:
Can't we all just get along?
Posted by: On: 7/22/2008
Comment Title:
For the record, Consol was Bi-District Champions in 1993, 1996, 2003, and 2006. They were Area Champions in 2006.
Posted by: On: 7/22/2008
Comment Title: priorities
Perhaps the school, and all involved, would benefit from a refocusing of the outrage away from the playing field and toward the classroom. It amazes me how people can get be incited to anger by an element of school that is extracurricular, while watching the next generation of students being educated in facilities that increasingly resemble prisons. That being said, the coaches are acting as representatives of the taxpayers. They should act in a manner that upholds community standards. The parents of the "wronged" girls need to focus on the abuse aspect rather than the lack of promotion. Every parent thinks their girl will some day play on the Olympic team.
Posted by: On: 7/22/2008
Comment Title: Juvenile
Some of these comments are so juvenile. Some of you are talking about kids and acting like kids at the same time with all the mud-slinging. Grow up and make intellegent comments.
Posted by: On: 7/22/2008
Comment Title:
This seems to have been a healthy dialog with serveral sides presenting their viewpoints. BISD has always encouraged parental involvement. It is good to see parents, teachers, administrators, students, coaches and the school board working together to sovle a problem.
Posted by: On: 7/22/2008
Comment Title:
Yes Bryan came in 3rd in the district but once again went farther in he playoffs than anyone else in the district and farther than Consol has EVER gone. There are very few programs in the state can post the type of sustained playoff success Bryan has over the years. Bi-Disrict Champs is better than district champs any day. It's a good thing Bryan teachers and staff support each other since very little comes from the community as far as sending them kids that know how to behave and be successful. Kids behavior starts at home.
Posted by: Rick Gorzycki On: 7/22/2008
Comment Title:
I've lived in Bryan my entire life. I'm proud of the accomplishments Bryan and BHS has acheived through the years. Every city/school has their problems. Administrators and coaches can't and won't please everyone. All this blog is doing is hurting our community. This bashing has gone on long enough. As a proud Bryanite and softball supporter I'm asking the Eagle to show some class and close this down,
Posted by: On: 7/22/2008
Comment Title:
Congrats nothing to BHS...that school is goin down the crapper. All the teachers that work there talk about how they have not control and that it is a breeding ground for felons. The staff support each other b/c they're all on the same sinking ship. TAke a do do pie.
Posted by: On: 7/22/2008
Comment Title:
That is awesome to hear that the staff supports each other at BHS. Its not always that way in other places I hear. In my son's school in a small town there was so much jealousy between the teachers and coaches, it really hurt the school and town. Congratulations to your school! Looks like you are doing things right! I hope it all works our for your coaches.
Posted by: #22 On: 7/22/2008
Comment Title: All I have to say is...........
If the glove doesn't fit you must acquit.
Posted by: On: 7/22/2008
Comment Title: BHS Teacher
As a Bryan High teacher for over 15 years, let me assure you that no one at school was upset that Enrique got the job. Rather, there was a lot of happiness that his efforts and dedication on behalf of the school were rewarded (something that doesn't always happen in BISD). And while I feel sorry for Enrique that he's having to go through this, let me also assure you that every football coach, basketball coach, baseball coach, and coach of any other sport has had to endure the same sort of crap. So has every cheerleading sponsor, Shy-Annes Sponsor, choir and band director, and speech and debate coordinator. For that matter, principals and counselors catch hell from parents about their kid's class ranking, and teachers get complained to about grades. It's the tawdry side of the competitiveness that attracts people to these activities to begin with.
Posted by: On: 7/22/2008
Comment Title:
Good tactic, vulgarity may get this thread closed. You are right, all those parents of kids who don't play well should just shut up and let Enrique run the program like he wants to. BHS had a winning season last year and finished third in district for the first time, which is something to be proud of. And whether he has been arrested or not shouldn't matter, since all he wants to do is coach young girls. Maybe soome of them have been arrested or will be arrested and he will be able to better relate to them. It is always better for a coach and players to have somethig in common.
Posted by: On: 7/21/2008
Comment Title:
Ill bet it wasn't posted. He was the best choice already on staff so why go outside.
Posted by: On: 7/21/2008
Comment Title:
District jobs have to be posted and any of them could have applied. Bryan better take care of the great coaches they have because like you said who in the world would wanna work here when a few established idiots can cause something like the debacle this has been.
Posted by: On: 7/21/2008
Comment Title:
What about the rest of the teachers there who have worked so hard to get their degrees and certification? What are they thinking right now when an undegreed, uncertified person is in charge of one of the most visual programs on the campus? You say that isn't an issue? Is it or not? I'm sure he is a great coach and person, but how many certified teachers and coaches from out of town would have wanted the job after Coach Williamson retire? I'm sure a lot then, but none now after this.
Posted by: On: 7/21/2008
Comment Title:
What ever the school pays it's not enough to put up with this mess. Glad it's not me.
Posted by: On: 7/21/2008
Comment Title:
Maybe Blockbuster should pay him more. Then he could quit coaching and would not have to put up with all this abuse.
Posted by: On: 7/21/2008
Comment Title:
Blockbuster, for real? How does he get there if he can't drive?
Posted by: Softball DAD On: 7/21/2008
Comment Title:
He has the right to complain all he wants. The point is that his daughter like these girls was unable to even make varsity until she was a senior and then was not good enough to start. He has the same reputation for this type behavior in LL and travel ball, just like these parents. He wrote his letter to the paper then and whined and cried to anybody that would listen. Most of us had heard it all from him before. It was bull then just like now. Its like I've said already, anybody whose been around softball over the last 10 yrs or so knows all these people and the behaviors they repeat everywhere their kids play.
Posted by: On: 7/21/2008
Comment Title:
Is bryan the only school where the head coach has to work at blockbuster? We should pay him more!
Posted by: On: 7/21/2008
Comment Title:
I agree with Enrique, this blog should be taken down right now. LOL
Posted by: On: 7/21/2008
Comment Title: Letter to the Editor
If his daughter didn't start for BHS, he has no right to gripe.
Posted by: On: 7/21/2008
Comment Title:
Everyone who has been around the program for a while got a big laugh out of the Letter to the Editor today. This dad was who Phil Graham had in mind last week with his "nation of whiners" remark. Lots of people overestimate the ability of their chilren. It's natural. Mature, reasonable parents come to terms with it when it's disproven on the field, in the bandhall, and in the classroom. But there always have been and always will be those who can't accept it, and they always have and always will raise as much Hell about it as they can.
Posted by: On: 7/21/2008
Comment Title:
whether he has been arrested or not has nothing to do with this. if you have not been arrested your self you should kkeep your stupid coments to youself.
Posted by: On: 7/21/2008
Comment Title:
He does not and never has. Coach Foreman usually always does for Varsity.
Posted by: On: 7/21/2008
Comment Title: arrest record
He was arrested for an "invalid" drivers liscence. Apparently there is a legal difference betweeen that and expired or suspended, but it would probably take a lawyer to tell us what it is. Since I doubt that he drives the bus, it is probably irrelevant to this discussion.
Posted by: On: 7/21/2008
Comment Title:
Does he drive a bus?
Posted by: You Know who I am On: 7/21/2008
Comment Title:
The glove was not thrown in anger and no this is not an incident that was brought up by the parents. I would be certain it was "RF" who posted this comment, he is digging for whatever he can, because he is realizing that there are more supporters for the coaches than for the ones who are crying! Oh and that was correct about that player being a starter and the #2 hitter!
Posted by: On: 7/21/2008
Comment Title:
In TX you can be arrested for anything except speeding and even then if it's double he posted limit. It was for no insurance on a vehicle that was his girlfriends and he was not responsible for and after a traffic accident that was not his fault. You are a sad person for even trying to make that into something. It just shows how desperate you people are to feel important.
Posted by: On: 7/21/2008
Comment Title:
Luna got Arrested for a Traffic Violation ? For Real ?
Posted by: On: 7/21/2008
Comment Title: ashamed
This article should be removed for the sole reason of the comments below. People should be ashamed of themselves for posting such horrible things about both sides. For the sake of everyone concerned: PLEASE TAKE THIS ARTICLE DOWN AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. It is no longer serving any purpose except to destroy everyone involved.
Posted by: On: 7/21/2008
Comment Title:
If you know so much what was the arrest for? Or do you just know what you heard?
Posted by: On: 7/21/2008
Comment Title: Arrest records
Arrest records are not the deal..it is the convictions that matter. You can get arrested for not paying your registration or speeding ticket. Also, innocent until proven guilty is the way for our country.I would be careful about speedy judgement because that is how fast people will judge you...just seems to work that way.
Posted by: On: 7/21/2008
Comment Title: just askin
Is coach Luna's arrest record relevant? He's a great supporter of Bryan High Softball. He even wore a Bryan High Softball T-shirt in the mug shot.
Posted by: On: 7/21/2008
Comment Title:
Not at, to. If you were not there and did not see it please don't speculate on what you "think" happened. Comments based on half truths and unfounded opinions are what started all this in the first place.
Posted by: On: 7/21/2008
Comment Title:
Apparently it worked because that player became a starting outfielder and #2 hitter in the line-up. And also bought a new glove. Is Youknowwhoiam right? Is that you RF? Everyone knows this is your doing.
Posted by: On: 7/21/2008
Comment Title:
So Coach threw a glove at a kid who was missing balls at third base? Don't most infielders wear a smaller glove so they can get the ball out quicker to make a play at first? Did he throw the glove in anger? Is that possibly the type of incident the parents were reporting to the school board?
Posted by: not a subscriber On: 7/21/2008
Comment Title:
If they do it will be on pg 5 in a tiny little blurb. They aways jump the gun with some big headline before doing their research and then the when the facts come to light there's little if anything printed to correct the mistake. This article should have been the first one written. That would be RESPONSIBLE journalism.
Posted by: On: 7/21/2008
Comment Title:
So I have a question for The Eagle. When all of this is said and done and the accusations of "abuse" are proven false, will you make a public apology to the coaches?
Posted by: YOu know who I am On: 7/21/2008
Comment Title: Re:DVQZ7
You have no idea what you are talking about when you refer to the player being thrown a glove at 3rd base!! If you were at the game then you obviously didn't watch the game! This was a scrimmage game and the player was missing balls because her glove was too small, a bigger glove was thrown her way (during the game) for her to use, IT WAS NOT THROWN AT HER!! I'm pretty sure I know who you are and let me just say, I'm glad you will not be around next year! 4 years of having to hear your crap was enough! I truly feel bad for your daughter that she had to deal with your verbal abuse. Quit trying to justify all you've done by trying to get people to believe your crap!
Posted by: On: 7/21/2008
Comment Title:
There are no sidelines in softball "Someone who cares"...get your sports right woman.
Posted by: DVQZ7 On: 7/21/2008
Comment Title:
"It's a fine line of where it goes too far," he said. "It's tough." As a general rule, Keiper said, when a student no longer wants to play a sport because of a coach, it means the coach has probably done a poor job of motivating that student. "Every coach will make mistakes," he said. "When kids don't want to play anymore, that's when you've lost it." The 08 class started out at 90+. BHS has many to select from, probably to many. The coach don't cut, they run them off and have for years. Question - Is throwing a glove at a player during a game for missing a ball at 3rd Abuse or Motivation to Making em Tougher?
Posted by: On: 7/21/2008
Comment Title:
Yep! Same old styff. If this keeps up I have a bad feeling it will destroy everything our yown has done to build the program in the past 15 years. Both sides please put an end to this nonsense
Posted by: On: 7/21/2008
Comment Title: here we go again....
with the peronal attacks and bringing racisim into it. I hope The Eagles takes this down sooner rather than later. They let it go on way too long last week.
Posted by: On: 7/21/2008
Comment Title: Re: Ben Aroundawhile Also
These people were not trying to be courageous by standing in public throwing out all these allegations, they brought the media with them. They have one agenda in mind and that is to hurt the careers of the coaches. These people are not innocent by any means! Unless you have read their allegations, you will not know what I'm talking about. These people were quick to talk about how their child was wronged, but did they talk about all the wrong their child did? NO!! Janice has only been gone 1 softball season, how can you say it's gotten worse?! I seriously doubt these girls have received "threatening" e-mails from anyone. You people seem to forget the fact that the students at BHS know a lot of what goes on at school and what other students are doing and when you come out with allegations, you should make sure that there is nothing in your past (whether that be yesterday or a month ago) that people are gonna call you out on, I'm sure that is what the kids are doing. These girls were no "angels" by any means.
Posted by: On: 7/21/2008
Comment Title:
If the parents feel that their concerns were not properly addressed with the coach, then, go to the school board. If they felt dismissed by the school board, which wouldn't surprise me, then the next step is put it in the public eye. This most definitely will make others look closer. Just because the parents are friends, doesn't mean it's a conspiracy. I am glad that A. Lara's children work hard. So, do mine. Maybe the 4 families children have complained to the coach and were dismissed and not handled in a satisfactory way. Why should the parents keep it confidential. Why not open the discussion and see if this is wide spread. Maybe not. Who knows. But, obviously, it needs to be addressed. To all those who wrote in support, good for you. To all those who wrote in with complaints, good for you too! Secrecy obscures the truth. If there is nothing wrong, then that too shall be open to all.
Posted by: On: 7/21/2008
Comment Title:
I don't know any of the people involved but I do agree that a persons word carries a certain amount of weight. This is affected by how they've used their word in the past. In other words their reputation. Some peoples word is worth much more than others and rightfully so.
Posted by: Ben Aroundawhile On: 7/21/2008
Comment Title:
The investigation will bring out the truth. It does not take courage at all if what you are saying is a lie. Everyone of these people has a long and self established reputation for doing just that. Lying to get their way or at least justify behaviors or lack of ability. Most people would be taken seriously but when your known to cry wolf people quit listening. It is also shameful to spread such rumors and accusations around and then when people ligitamatly question your motives to hide behind the "poor victim being picked on defense". If what is being said is true it will came out. Reminds me of those poor innocent girls and terrible mean Duke lacrosse players. But in the end she ruined some lives with lies and FALSE accusations designed to serve her own agenda. That was an extreme case but the same thing as these parents have done for years on a smeller scale. The TRUTH shall set us all free.
Posted by: Ben Aroundawhile Also On: 7/21/2008
Comment Title:
It is sad to see people attacked for telling the truth. How much courage does it take to stand up in public and say that your kid had a bad experience at Bryan High Softball. A Lot! Of course if you are one of the chosen ones who can do no wrong you would consider the coaching staff your friend. For those of us who really have been around a while it has gotten much worse since Janice left. She at least kept the bullying behind the scenes. I wonder if the major supporters of Luna are aware that their little angels have been sending threatening e-mails to the kids whose families are speaking up. Hmmmm
Posted by: Ben Aroundawhile On: 7/21/2008
Comment Title:
The parent who wrote in today has the same reputation for his behavior as Flores and Young. Thats why no one put any significance on what he said then and why these allegations will be proven false now. Anybody thats been around softball in this community for more than 10 yrs knows there's one more that used to run around trying to get everyone fired because they wouldn't let him coach from the stands. He's from a prominent family around here that starts with an S. If he decides to chime in they'll have the whole crew together. And Mrs. Varley if your daughter had such a bad experience why did she return to the team. I think those coaches showed great character in allowing your daughter to return after the vicious email you sent so many of us in the community that had no need to even know about it. It was obvious you sent it purely to defame Coach Williamson's name in the community. Fortunately your reputation precedes you as well. What a sad lesson of vengeance you people teach your kids. I know I myself would not be able to put up with what these and most coaches do on a daily basis. I'm glad for my kids sake there are people who can.
Posted by: On: 7/21/2008
Comment Title:
Can you Attest to the Abuse claim? Did they or did they not? Alot of former parents of Softball know what these 4 family's are talking about. Read the Eagle Opinion Section today for another family. Not to many know the Coach's - if you talk to them or your daughter, the girls have to run.
Posted by: On: 7/21/2008
Comment Title:
I don't have a daughter at all. I'll be happy to defend Enrique, Shelley, Ben, and Rae Ann with as much zeal as the Lara's. Do you even know the coaches? Can you attest to their character as I can? Why are you attacking them so much, hmmmmmm?
Posted by: On: 7/21/2008
Comment Title: Re: Male S.P.
Now that is the most stupidest comment ever posted!
Posted by: Male S.P. On: 7/21/2008
Comment Title: easy one
I can solve this case easy! Just do away with womens sports and sign them all up for home economics! The only people who care about womens sports are families that didnt have a son! Case Closed, now go bake a cake and be quiet!
Posted by: Making you wonder why?? On: 7/21/2008
Comment Title: any other parents out there
Is the Lara family the only players on the team? Why are they defending him so much, hmmmmmm?
Posted by: On: 7/20/2008
Comment Title:
I just wanna say that when I read this article I did not take Mr. Wunneburgers comment like you other have. I read his statement as per the rules the parents were limited to a 5 minute timespan in which they could basically introduce their complaint with out specifics. Four parents adds up to the 20 mins. I thought his point was that the complaints at that point, (unable to be addressed by the board) did not warrant a front page article with such an inflammatory title. After the board gets to investigate and present their conclusion then let the chips fall as they may.
Posted by: On: 7/20/2008
Comment Title: Good Kids, Supportive Parents
As someone who has coached 2 of Ms. Lara's children, let me just say that they are 2 of the hardest working athletes that I have had the opportunity to work with. These girls are respectful, hard-working and very coachable both on and off of the court/field. These are traits that are learned through expectations of supportive, involved parents. They were good students who were involved in numerous activities and still maintained their grades and positive attitudes. Thank you to the Lara family for instilling qualities in their athletes!!!
Posted by: BHS Mom On: 7/20/2008
Comment Title: Re: Angela Lara
Mrs. Lara,,,maybe your daughter isn't a favorite, as I am sure she is a very hard working student and athlete,,,,but to discount these parents and students concerns as pure rumor isn't fair. You don't live their lives and can't know for sure if what they are saying is true or not. Let the powers that be, so their job and investigate. If it should come back that there was/is wrong doing on the side of the coaches,,,will you and your daughters concede that you were wrong??? Probably not....
Posted by: Truth Detector On: 7/20/2008
Comment Title: Correction
The statement should read: The City of Bryan CANNOT prosper without a quality school system.
Posted by: Truth Detector On: 7/20/2008
Comment Title: Re:Understand the public has rights
Trustee Douglas Wunneburger needs to understand that the citizen's right to speak can only improve the system. The parents that spoke were presenting a complaint in a professional manner. The fact the the new board President let the parents speak shows that the last election cycle has brought about a new dynamic. I do not believe that Trustee Green would have allowed the presentation like Mr. Hasen did. The BISD school board needs to understand that the public is tired of the board not taking an active role in the operation of the school system. Trustee Douglas Wunneburger needs to read and understand the Open Meetings laws or get off the board. Government works best when it works in the open. The BISD board has for years violated the laws regarding Open Meetings and the hope know is that Mr. Hasen will take the lead and guide the other board members to understand their responsibilities. The City of Bryan can prosper without a quality school system. The board should appoint an outside committee to investigate concerns so as to remove any appearance of bias.
Posted by: Angela Lara On: 7/20/2008
Comment Title:
I didn't expect to get questioned for speaking out about this but since I did, I thought I'd respond. There were no "Favorites" on the team, least of all my daughters. My daughters have done more than their share of running, have been pulled from a game for making errors and benched. My daughters work hard to be the best player they can be and they work hard in their academics also, if they didn't, there would be no softball, not because of the coach or UIL rules but because of me. When I said I had no problems with the coaches, I meant that. Does it mean I agreed with some of their decisions? Heck no! But the way I see it, I'm not the one playing, if my daughters have a problem I feel it is up to them to talk to the coach about it and work on a solution to fix it. Now as for this whole situation, I believe that these parents were not happy with the response they received and this is why they went to the school board, but why bring the media? Also, yes these complaints are from 3 different parents, but these three parents and daughters are all close friends and there is one other person who is behind all this, right Mr. Ford? I agree that the comments got out of control in the last article and many unnecessary and hurtful things were said but the truth will come out and people will see that things are not always as people try to make them out to be.
Posted by: On: 7/20/2008
Comment Title:
Yes, maybe a majority of all this is parents, but the parents are responsible for their children. This is going on in other areas of BHS, Not just softball. Its been going on for years. Just because someone finally stood up, the school comes to the defense when all along, its been out of control. Remove Harry Francis, he is NO angel himself. He ruined many a players in his own days and has done many things to young men that many know about and how he got to his position, only the good Lord knows. Its too bad all the negative comes out at once, but maybe its time. Its been going on for along time!
Posted by: On: 7/20/2008
Comment Title:
cargill also does not keep his word! Its just what the moment holds
Posted by: On: 7/20/2008
Comment Title:
Don't look for a fair assessment from the Board. They are the rubber stamped Board that Mr. Goehl spoke of during the Spring. What ever Cargill tells them, they will go along with.
Posted by: Randy On: 7/20/2008
Comment Title: Whining Parents
Roy Flores is supposedly heading the charge to get Luna fired. Isn't this the same guy who thought it was appropriate to leave his daughter on the side of Harvey Mitchell and drive off to "teach her a lesson"? Anyone that allies with him is crazy.
Posted by: Bryan teacher On: 7/20/2008
Comment Title: Hoffmans view point
Mrs Hoffman's daugther plays softball. She is very pro-student, and takes any problems with our students seriously. She is a former teacher, thus she understands the issues teachers and coaches face. However, it has been a while since she was in the classroom. Just give her a chance, she is very intelligent and fair. She will make sure the board finds the truth. She is very opinionated, and she always believes she is right, but most of the time she is. Hang in there!! The truth will come out
Posted by: On: 7/20/2008
Comment Title: Problem with parents
The problem is the parents. The reason many kids are not ready for life is because parents baby them way too long. It used be that a kid was ready to get out on their own at 18...then 21 and now adolescence has spread until about 25.I think the parents were out of line in this case.
Posted by: On: 7/20/2008
Comment Title:
"I think he's a great coach," Wood said of Luna. "He's pretty tough." RICHARD IS HE A GREAT COACH? HA Ha
Posted by: On: 7/20/2008
Comment Title: Tempest in a teapot
I am concerned with Mrs. Hoffman's comment that "my concern is for our athletes." What about coaches and educators? Parents seem quick to blame educators for lack of performance on the part of their child, never at the student. It looks like a parenting issue, not a coaching issue.
Posted by: On: 7/20/2008
Comment Title: Hmmm
Trustee Douglas Wunneburger needs to remove himself from any further meetings or decisions on this issue. According to the article he stated that "the board would investigate the parents' concerns". But then he stated (regarding the parents' presentation of their concerns) that "It wasn't a five-minute comment, it was four people making a 20-minute presentation. I think those things shouldn't have been aired in public." The second statement implies he is not actually interested in investigating the issue and will not be objective. The parents have apparently decided that the school's response was not adequate and have taken the issue more public, which is their right. And it's the school board's duty to take concerns presented to it seriously. I don't know any of these coaches or the players but I agree with the poster below who pointed out that this is an awful lot of smoke for there to be no fire. The fact that some players report they did not experience mistreatment is not a guarantee that other players were not mistreated. And the fact that a PARENT (A. Lara) says that SHE never had a problem with a coach is completely irrelevant to how the coaches treated the PLAYERS.
Posted by: On: 7/20/2008
Comment Title:
What does being a noncertified teacher have to do with coaching? Being an educator and a coach, I can say that you will not learn anything about how to coach during the certification process. Can ideas and practices be carried over into the coaching field? Sure. However, the coaching profession comes from a love of the sport, a love of teaching that sports to youngsters, and knowledge of the sport. Quit attacking Luna's academic teaching qualifications and let's focus on this from a softball side. Does he the qualifications to be a coach - knowledge and love of the sport. Texas is one of the few states that actually require all coaches to be district employees. Most states just hire coaches who coach the club and travel teams to be the coach. Image having that situation here - there's your sports political nightmare.
Posted by: On: 7/20/2008
Comment Title: As I see it.
Accusations and opinions aside, by players and parents both past and present, everyone is missing the point here! Usually where there is smoke there is fire. Concerns were brought about to the Athletic Department by 3 sets of parents not just one. Also, there may be more parents and players with the same concerns but fear the same retaliation that has come to those that originally have spoken out. Secondly, if you have concerns about any aspect of the program your child is involved in, you should go to the specific officials that oversee these programs and express them. The real issue here that is paramount is the following: How is a NON-DEGREED, NON-CERTIFIED employee of the district a HEAD VARSITY SOFTBALL COACH of a class 5A program with the history of Bryan High that has recently won a state championship? Just because you have been around the program doesn't mean you know how to run the program. The credibility has been challenged due to lack of credentials of the coach! A teaching certification and degree bring a lot of credibility with it, not opinion! Proof of that person having the knowledge and education to fulfill and accept the responsibility that the coaching profession demands and requires. If the coach had these credentials, perhaps the methods would not be in question!
Posted by: On: 7/20/2008
Comment Title: Common Sense
What do the lady players have to say? We keep hearing from the parents. In the last article a young lady stood up and spoke her mind in support of the coaches. Here you have two young ladies from the team supporting the coaches again. It does sound like the parents are trying to inflame a situation that could have been handled without all of the media attention and speculation. Common sense needs to prevail.
Posted by: Mike On: 7/20/2008
Comment Title: Parents
It seems from the comments from the last article and this one that the problem is the parents not the kids or coaches. Having been around softball from all vantage points, I have found that in most cases mom and dad are unhappy with their child's playing time and so on..Let the coaches put the best on the field....
Posted by: On: 7/20/2008
Comment Title:
Favoritism, critism, and abuse, why welcome to the real world. School is almost like real life. Now if academics could get as much attention along with teacher qualification we might start getting some place.
Posted by: Bryan High mom On: 7/20/2008
Comment Title: Is there some truth???
What Mrs. Lara needs to remember is that behind every rumor is some truth. Could it be that her daughter was a "favorite" therefore, she didn't see the abuse? I don't know,,,but one thing I do know is that I have heard it also from a former softball player and she is one that has great character. I don't feel it is fair to either side to keep it quiet if it is true. Let the officials do the investigating and let the chips fall where they may.
Posted by: On: 7/20/2008
Comment Title:
This is a very good article. Congrats to the Eagle for stepping up and presenting the other side of the issue. FInally, thanks for stopping the comments on the last article even though it took FOREVER to do it. A lot of adults and children who were not involved in this situation were drug into the mess and were really hurt by the accusations. This should have never gone this far. I really hope the eagle really keeps an close watch on the comments to keep the personal attacks off of the board. Good luck to the coaches, parents, and players and I hope everyone can recover from this and move on.
Posted by: On: 7/20/2008
Comment Title:
You think doing away with athletics solves these problems? You have the same things occurring with academics! You'd have more luck if you did away with parents.
Posted by: Loser Police On: 7/20/2008
Comment Title:
Just do away with all athletics!
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