Give Deike the respect she deserves

Clay Ihlo

University officials showed unprofessionalism in releasing former women’s basketball coach Terri Deike, a decision that likely has ended a stellar career. Deike, who sat at the helm of the women’s Patriots basketball team for its first six years, was axed in a June meeting with Athletic Director James Vilade and Dr. Howard Patterson, the vice president of student affairs.

The announcement blind sided Deike, with no warming, no discussing or plausible reason. Deike said Patterson told her “poor leadership” was a factor, but her evaluation say otherwise.

All six of Deike’s evaluations, five by Patterson and one by Vilade, complemented her leadership skill and the personable way she handled herself. They spoke highly of her involvement in student organization. Such as the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Even if Vilade’s evaluation addressed some negatives, he gave her a commendable rating.

The team did have a down year in 2009, going 15-11, but one bad season should not overshadow success of the previous years. The Patriots won the American Southwest Conference East Division back-to-back season in 2005 and 2006, and played host to the conference tournament in 2008, after winning their third division title.

At the end of the season, a hand full of players transferred out of the program, apparently displeased with Deike. Among them was Patriots’ star guard, Becky Taylor, who transferred to Hardin-Simmons. There are only three players returning this season. One is Melissa Thomas, who sat out the second half of last season with a torn anterior cruciate ligament.

One problem Deike faced last season was lack of leadership on the team. She was forced to try  and fill that role herself. Deike said she believes her controlling ways may have resulted in the  exodus. It’s not uncommon players become upset with a coach and leave to find a better fit, but this has not been a problem in the past with Deike.

The timeliness of the release is another issue. In June, most new coaches, or those in transition, already have  a job. It is logical to fire a coach at the end of the season, giving the department enough time to find a replacement. Therefore, allowing enough time for recruitment and other adjustments.

Deike could not find a job at such a late date either, and because of her family situation was forced to retire. Deike also believes the circumstances surrounding her dismissal left a stain on her resume.

As for the role Deike left, Stasha Richards, former Baylor standout, has taken over. I was not sure this was a good hire, because I was concerned she did not have enough coaching experience.. Not because I did not believe in Richards’ ability. I hope she leads the program to new heights. It was because I was not sure if she had enough experience.

I had the opportunity to evaluated all the applications sent to the University. I found several  candidates that I  believed would be a better fit than Richards. I asked a basketball player to look through them as well, and she believes Richards is the right choice, which eases my mind.

There is no doubt Richards has a tough road ahead. She is coming into a program with few letter winners, and could face a lot of criticism if the team doesn’t do well.

Nothing can be done to change the situation concerning Deike, but there are some things that still smell. Administrators could have tried to talk things out with Deike, and allowing the opportunity to address any problems Giving her reason would be a nice gesture too. Not giving her cause is cowardice.

So, if the administration wants to release another faculty member suddenly, hopefully they will have the guts to step up and take a charge