[Luke The Drifter]

I have been a friend and a wo-worker with Mark Martin. His work ethic and passion for the game and his kids, both athletes and students has made an impact in a lot of kids both boys and girls ranging from Pike County to Floyd County. Many call him "coach" from the YMCA to the local Wal-Mart.
I have been watching these comments for a while and I would like to clarify a few things that have been said, especially referring to the earlier statement on the dismissal of Coach Patton.
The reasoning for the change is more about a "principle" issue than about the wins and loses, which is what high school sports should be all about. The word "defy" which means to confront or resist boldly, or to dare a superiors instruction. When a coach can not play by the rules given to them by his boss, I feel it is justified to take action.

I know that Mark Martin called Ms. Hall after the Hopkins resigned excited about an opportunity to go back to Allen Central. I know that the girls and their parents are excited that Mark has taken so much time (with out a full time teaching job) to work with these young players. How can you judge someone with out all the facts!


Curious to hear your thoughts and replies.
Oldschoolvalues.... balls in your court.

Well, first, I'm not judging Mark. He seems like a descent person. However, he is in the click with the ADMINISTRATION at AC. How many other head boys or girls basketball coaches are there in Floyd County that are not teachers? The answer is "0" And if he is so deserving from the "YMCA to Wal-Mart" why doesn't he have a HIGH SCHOOL coaching job in Pike Co. or at Pikeville Ind? Why hasn't a Pike Co. High School picked up on him? I think a lot of people find it strange!

As for coach Hopkins, I think Jennifer was just tired of it and left. I never said Mark had anything to do with it, but there was never any doubt who the next would be!

As for your comments about Ronnie Patton and the "principle". The only "principle" in effect was that a SBDM member had a son who played on the team AND a husband who wanted to coach the team! The whole world knows this! I have heard some comments about coach Patton's son being the reason. I know this for a FACT --- I mean a FACT! that coach Patton was notified by email that he was fired! It simply said "you will no longer be the baseball coach". Then later when he called to ask why the Principal at AC told him because of parent complaints!

Jamin J, I usually respect your opinions, but if you think Johnny Martin's job hasn't been in danger in the past 5 or 6 years and that it still isn't then give him a call and ask him what he thinks. As for the administration at AC making sound decisions ----- I don't think so!