There has been a lot of discontent amongst players and parents in recent months, following the departure of coach Michael Dennis last November.
Since then, many have expressed fear that the program could even collapse as the fall season grows ever nearer.
Players and parents have said they believe more attention has been focused on filling the coaching positions of the football team and the boys’ soccer program.
A recommendation for a new coach was made to the Greater Clark County school board last evening (May 25).
Jeremy Pickerell was approved for the girls’ varsity team, and Carson Webb, coach of Frankfort HS girls last year, was approved for the boys.
Jeffersonville girls' varity soccer team 2009
Jeffersonville athletic director Jeff Griffith said the girls’ position had been offered to someone (a Louisville girls’ varsity coach) in February, but he backed out. A boys’ coach had also been chosen, and he too decided not to take up the post.
Rachelle Thomas, one of the Lady Red Devils’ three captains on the varsity squad last fall, described the delay in filling the position as “degrading and sad.”
The junior said that despite the program’s lack of success, there are a lot of talented girls on the team who are part of many travel soccer squads.
“Because we don't win people at our school treat the Jeff high girls’ soccer program as a joke and the humiliation has grown now that we haven’t had a coach for months,” said Thomas.
“In my honest opinion, it’s not the players’ fault that we have been so unsuccessful, and I feel the school board is questioning our ability.
“The school isn't concerned with the fact that we do not have a coach and frankly it seems like they could care less if we existed.
“When (we lost) our former coach (Michael Dennis), I was on edge because I was uncertain where our program would go.
“I honestly feel that with a great coach, our girls’ soccer program can achieve great heights and become a great team if the school provides us the opportunity and puts faith in our ability. All they need to do is invest in the program by providing a good coach.”
Becky Kiger, secretary on the Lady Devils’ soccer board – and mother of team member Cadie -- believes the girls deserve more respect.
“Maybe there is an underlying lesson that when it comes to sports and Jeff High, females are just second class citizens,” said Kiger.
“I have been in contact (with the school) multiple times this year to find out what is going on with the coaching position. I have been told that there were positive prospects and there would be a decision in a few days.
“Our girls deserve to be treated better than this.”
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