UMaine will flourish under coach Blodgett
Respectfully, I write to comment on the recent view expressed in the column, Fan Feedback (BDN, March 24) regarding Cindy Blodgett, the head coach of the University Maine women’s basketball team. I strongly disagree with the writer’s conclusions. In short, I don’t believe she knows what she is talking about!
Having been a longtime observer (and admittedly a great fan) of the women’s basketball program at UMaine, my own viewpoint and conclusion is quite different. For the writer to suggest that there is not enough “professional” experience is simply not true.
This past season all four coaches not only have had considerable playing experience but also professional coaching experience. Several coaches, including the head coach, have had a number of years as an assistant coach in several Division I programs. Also, it is unusual to have several coaches with WNBA playing experience.
The respect for our coach’s experience and knowledge of the game among many other Division I coaches around the country is very great. If anyone had been close to the program the past few years they would know this respect. If anyone had attended any of the “Chalk Talk” public presentations this past season, they would be well aware of the depth and complexity of play and program being developed and restored at UMaine.
As someone who as attended all home games and several games away, watched some practice sessions and workouts, participated in the activity and programs of the Friends of Maine Women’s Basketball, I believe I speak with good perspective. The challenges of our head coach were great. I believe she has made great progress with player challenges and improvement.
The recruitment of new players has been positive. Organization of the whole program with honor and integrity is exemplary. Coach Blodgett is the hardest-working, most ethical and most dedicated person for this coaching challenge that we could have ever found.
Hold onto your seats, folks. I think you will find great success and excitement in UMaine women’s basketball continuing to develop in the years ahead.
Lead us on, coach!
William C. Bromley
Ellsworth
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MPA policy not used for tourney, practices
In the BDN Sports section on March 26 there is a box detailing some of the Maine Principals’ Association Sports Season Policy.
With regard to the section which reads: “To provide opportunity for families to clearly define times for vacation and other family function…” there are some questions.
How does the MPA reconcile scheduling the basketball tournament during the school vacation, thereby canceling any family vacation plans for participating students? Also, some schools have scheduled practices during breaks which, if a participant misses, that participant must sit out the next game.
How do such events provide opportunities for family vacations?
Bob Pentland
Lamoine
Bob Pentland
Lamoine
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