Hi girls! It has been over three months since I last had a chance to address the team (which was in August while you were enjoying the UNBC team camp in preparation for the 2009/10 season).

During the summer, I spoke with most of the players. The enthusiasm for the upcoming year was evident, and I commend you on taking the initiative for participating in off-season camps to improve your skills.

Yes, it is hard to believe that tip-off has just about arrived.

Girls, remember the thrills last season.

 

The City semi-final produced one of the highest scoring girls' games ever in Prince George. It was an unforgettable 95-82 victory over PGSS. WOW!

That game set the stage for the City Finals at UNBC. In front of several hundred fans, the girls' game grabbed the spotlight over the boys. The smile on your faces after the game was priceless. An 83-77 triumph over a very talented, experienced Duchess Park team was special. Duchess was ranked #5 in the province at that time.

 

Next up was the zone tournament. In the key provincial qualifying game, you worked very hard to upset Nechako Valley, 50-41, a team ranked provincially, in the top 10, all year.

Then, a trip to the Double "A" provincials in Kamloops produced a 1-3 record, which did not tell the whole story. In the second game against JL Crowe of Trail, we trailed by 3 points with just over a minute left. JL Crowe held on for a close win and went on to finish sixth with a 3-1 record.

In high school sports, success does not necessarily translate into results. Indeed, what made last season so successful was the camaraderie amongst the players, a willingness to listen and learn, and enjoy the ride. In fact, in my talks with each of you, I heard the word "fun" repeatedly.

On the court, last season, DP Todd may have been small (in size) and an underdog (being youthful) but the team rose to the occasion.

This season, however, your role changes. Now, with several returning highly skilled players, and a great crop of newcomers, the Trojans will be the city favorites, a role I know you will cherish and accept while at the same time maintaining respect for the opposition. Yes, expectations for this season's team will be to beat NVSS, and other challengers for the Double “A” zone title. The pre-season rankings have DP Todd at #10 and a medal finish at provincials is certain to be the goal.

 

In my seven years volunteering at DP Todd, the last two coaching at the senior level, I have always respected you, the players, and have been straightforward, and honest.

 

 

As you know, I have been removed as Head Coach. It is my understanding that DP Todd's Athletic Director, Reid Roberts, recommended, at the request of some parents, to the new principal, Richard Dougherty, to release me as those parents disagreed with my coaching philosophy. Furthermore, Mr. Roberts wanted the opportunity to coach the team himself. Mr. Dougherty, on his second day in the school (August 25th), informed me of the decision saying he wanted "a change of direction".

 

Players please know that while I disagree with the decision, I do realize that under school district 57 procedures, the principal has the right to make that move. I have spoken with Brian Pepper, School District #57 Superintendent and Lyn Hall, Chair of School District #57 Board of Trustees, among others, about how a community coach can so easily get dumped. I continue to have hope there will be dialogue and change brought to the existing SD 57 policy so that it directs SD 57 personnel to be collaborative and respectful in working with volunteers. Based on my experience, there are problems within this system.

 

Although I may no longer have a position on the team, I will be cheering for you, from a distance. In reality, I cannot blame anyone for wanting to step-in and coach a ready-made winning team with such a great attitude.

 

I have been fortunate to experience many good memories with all the teams I have coached at DP Todd. It is my hope that players remember the messages within our talks and that hard work, persistence, trust of your teammates and good sportsmanship are attitudes and behaviors that will
serve you well now and in the future.

I wish you all the best. Have a great season.

Sincerely yours,


Hartley Miller

Former Head Coach (DP Todd Senior Girls basketball team)

 

   

 

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