SMYRNA, Ga. — Parents and students in Smyrna want two high school basketball coaches to get their jobs back.
Campbell High School said it would not bring back Coach Randy McClure and Coach James Gwyn. A Change.org petition is urging the school to walk back its decision.
“After a combined 1,200 career wins, 16 region titles and multiple state tournament appearances, this is a tragic and unceremonious end to two illustrious coaching careers,” the petition reads.
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McClure has led the girls basketball program since 1990-91 season and Gwyn started coaching the boys team in 1995-96 season. This past season, the girls team went 23-5 and made the playoffs. The boys team finished 15-11.
Parents and alumni say they are upset that McClure and Gwyn weren’t given a chance to tell their players, students and coaching staffs that they weren’t coming back.
“Coach Gwyn and Coach McClure, if nothing else, deserved the decency of proper notice and an honorable exit from a lifetime of service to Campbell High School. The callous removal of these dedicated, decorated and servant leaders is a loss of over 71 years of service for this community,” the petition states.
As of Tuesday afternoon, the petition has nearly 2,800 signatures.
The Cobb County School District shared a statement that confirmed they are investigating.
“The District could not be prouder of Coach Gwyn and Coach McClure and all they have accomplished over their 30+ year careers. They have built one of the best basketball programs in the state and, more importantly, shaped generations of student-athletes into leaders. Their impact extends far beyond the court, leaving a lasting legacy in our school and community.
While we are actively investigating, right now, our focus is on celebrating the incredible careers of Coach Gwyn and Coach McClure. We could not be more excited about the program’s future—but right now is about honoring two of the best coaches in Georgia high school sports history.”
— Cobb County School District spokesperson
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