Several parents and students spoke in support of Waterville varsity softball coach Bob Clendennen returning for another year.
Although applications had not been taken yet for any spring coaching positions as of last week’s Waterville Board of Education meeting, people said they heard Clendennen was told he would not be brought back. Coaches are appointed only for their sports season and have to be approved by the Board upon recommendation of the superintendent each year.
Clendennen came to Waterville 15 years ago with 398 wins earned as coach in Whitesboro. His 442 wins as of last season rank him among the top coaches ever in the sport in Section Three.
However, what parents and students and former players pointed out was not the wins he’s brought to the WCS program, but how he cares about students and their development as players and people.
Mary Kate Ruane said her daughter has worked on skills with Clendennen even though this will be her first year on varsity. Ruane said her daughter and teammates sent letters of support to Board members and Athletic Director Tom Gifford.
Ruane asked for the procedure for coaches to be appointed. Business Administrator Tracy Leone said openings are first posted internally for staff, then if not filled advertising in the Waterville Times.
Spring said recommendations come from…
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