Letters To The Editor

WSU BASKETBALL

Ex-Coug coaches lauded

Thanks for John Blanchette’s excellent response and follow-up to the remarks made by WSU athletic director Rick Dickson in the recent Kevin Eastman article by Carter Strickland (“The press is on,” Dec. 13).

Having worked in the WSU athletic department from 1980-89 as academic coordinator, I also know that no two coaches worked harder at keeping the “student” in student-athlete than George Raveling and Kelvin Sampson, and at working to elevate their programs “the right way.”

I, also, could not believe Dickson’s comments and read into his comments (or others’) not only the “C” word implications (for cheating), but also the “R” word (for racist); “It wasn’t the right way if it wasn’t the white way.”

Thanks for taking Dickson to task. Rick Tucker, Associate Dean, Student Services Spokane Falls Community College

Apology owed

The article written by Carter Strickland in Sunday’s paper regarding WSU basketball and Kevin Eastman (“The press is on,” Dec. 13) was disgusting and with poor taste.

What was the purpose for it? Why was it put on the front page and then given all the space in the sports pages? What qualifies Strickland to be so negative about a coach? Has he played or coached somewhere?

Coaching basketball is very difficult. This type of cheap-shot reporting doesn’t help. I am disappointed that sports editor Jeff Jordan allowed it to happen. You both owe an apology to the players and the coach.

To the players of WSU: stay focused, play hard and smart, build team chemistry, and be loyal to your coach. Some good things will happen for you and the team. Mike Larson Spokane

CHIEFS HOCKEY

Quit changing goalies

I have been reading with great interest the letters regarding our Spokane Chiefs.

Everyone should have realized that, after trading away the nucleus of our up-and-coming players for veterans to lead us to the Memorial Cup, that the next two years would be a rebuilding process. For such a young team, I think they have showed poise and perseverance.

I have been a constant supporter of the team and coaching staff. However, after our last game, I would like to question coach (Mike) Babcock. David Haun, who is a wonderful person, has been struggling this year in goal. A few games back, the coach decided to put in our reserve goalie. He has played solidly and won all the games he started. (Editor’s note: He has had one tie.) It appeared the team was gaining confidence in itself and in (goalie) Mike Lencucha. Then for some reason, Coach Babcock pulls the goalie and plays David again. Unfortunately, he had a tough game.

My only question is, why would anyone risk killing the small amount of momentum the team was developing? Please, Coach, think before you act. When you start criticizing the goalie you chose to play, please criticize your judgement first. Diane Amsden Spokane