[catspaws]

As an AC alumnus, I must say that firing Johnny Martin would be a mistake. Johnny Martin has devoted his life to that school's basketball program and those boys that he has coached over the years up to the present. Anyone who has winning seasons 24 of 26 years must be doing something right. I know that the last 2 years have been bad, well down right horrendous, but that doesn't justify firing a winning coach. As a matter of fact the reasons given to fire Johnny are absolutely absurd..

???What, he doesn't win enough games??:lame: Well to be a winning coach for 24 years, I think that winning games is pretty much necessary..

???He can't get any calls on the court?? He is one of the most respected coaches around the region and state, and yes when he works the refs, he does get the calls. Just the other night at the district tournament game against Betsy Layne, Johnny argued an official about a goal tending call and the official changed the call.

???Better talent in hallways than playing on the team?? Of course there probably is, but this is true at any school. Most of these boys walking the hallways don't want to play ball on an organized team where they would have to play team basketball, they are only worried about "I" not team. Furthermore, basketball takes time. Practice, games, it's not just showing up and playing then going home; you have to have dedication and those boys that stick it out and play for Johnny have dedication and heart. It would also be easier for the boys to try out for the team if a certain administrator from ACHS would quit telling the incoming frosh from the grade schools and their families that playing for Johnny would be a mistake because he runs you to death and you probably won't get to play. Such bull.. Johnny gives you the chance to prove yourself, that is if you want to play. And of course you have to run, that's part of basketball.

These reasons are so bogus. Furthermore, any coach who has dedicated his life to a program should have the chance to go out with some dignity and respect instead of being dismissed from his position. The administration and a few select parents of the school want rid of Johnny.. But why?? Do they feel threatened? or is it just because certain people have to have their way all the time?? To the administration of ACHS, and you know who you are, come out, make a statement instead of being cowards and letting the rumors fly.. Have some backbone, instead of being spineless snakes in the grass..

Johnny Martin :theman: :dance: