Sports in brief: Lynn steps down at Shadle Park

Softball: George Lynn, who spent more than a decade at Shadle Park, 10 years as head coach, has announced his resignation.

In a letter to activities coordinator Tim Trout, Lynn said simply, “The decision was extremely difficult as I have thoroughly enjoyed the 11-year tenure. I have greatly appreciated Shadle Park High School giving me the positive support and this tremendous opportunity.”

During his stay, first as an assistant in 1999 and then as head coach, the Highlanders were a power in the Greater Spokane League, with Lynn compiling a 242-52 overall record.

Shadle made eight state appearances, including five in succession under Lynn from 2005-09, during which it reached the State 4A finals three times, winning the championship in 2007. They also had a fourth-place finish.

Shadle won four straight GSL titles before finishing third last spring, but qualified for the 3A state tourney.

Lynn’s youngest daughter, Danielle, graduated this year and will play at Portland State, where she is projected to start in center field.

“The Lynn family has been going pretty hard for some time now,” he said. He also was coach of the Spokane Sliders summer select program.

He called it “kind of a family decision. … There comes a time when you have to do what’s best for the family.”

Texas Tech suspends Leach

College football: Texas Tech suspended Mike Leach while the school investigates complaints from receiver Adam James and his family about how the coach treated the player after a concussion.

James is the son of former NFL player and current television analyst Craig James.

The school said in a release that defensive coordinator Ruffin McNeill will be the interim coach and lead the team in the Alamo Bowl on Jan. 2 against Michigan State.

Texas Tech officials declined to identify the player, but James’ family released a statement to the Associated Press identifying Adam as the player involved.

“Mr. and Mrs. James took the step with great regret and after consideration and prayer to convey to the Texas Tech administration that their son had been subjected to actions and treatment not consistent with common sense rules for safety and health,” the statement said.

James suffered a concussion during a Dec. 16 practice.

Associated Press