Texas high school volleyball coach resigns after parents gripe about playing time

Unruly sports parents claimed another victim this week, this time forcing out a Texas high school volleyball coach with complaints over playing time.

Amarillo High School coach Kori Clements lasted just one season with the program, leading the Lady Sandies to a 33-14 record before losing in the regional semifinals. There are few details about the circumstances of Clements’ departure, but she released a statement Wednesday explaining her decision.

Here is part of her statement, as reported by the Amarillo Globe-News:

“As a coach, playing time decisions are always difficult. Unfortunately, upon making these decisions in the best interest of team success, I was not supported by athletic, campus, or district administration. I was told by campus administration that I needed to recognize the political aspect of my job, and also of theirs. I cannot and will not compromise the integrity of my decisions based on a parent’s political pressure or position. I believe strongly in the value of athletics, that being a part of a team is a privilege, and playing time is earned.

“I’m hopeful that AISD will be able to hire an experienced coach with the courage to make the tough playing time decisions and the technical expertise to push our returning players. Next year’s team has the potential to play for a State Championship, and I will be enthusiastically supporting them in their journey.”

Our columnists at Coach & Athletic Director have written often about parental interference and how athletic administrators or superintendents must support their coaches over selfish parents. Unfortunately, it appears administrators at Amarillo High School caved to parental demands.

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Clements is a 2006 graduate of Amarillo High School, and she won a national championship at the University of Nebraska. She replaced Hall of Fame coach Jan Barker after Barker retired in 2017.

Read more from the Amarillo Globe-News.