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School leaders pick a winner in Cleaveland
From time to time, we’ve found ourselves questioning the local school leaders’ commitment to extracurricular activities.
We’re happy to say that’s not the case this week, and we commend everyone involved in stepping up to the plate and doing what was necessary to bring Jimmy Cleaveland back home as Smoky Mountain’s men’s basketball coach.
There are many reasons we’re pleased with Cleaveland’s hiring. For starters, he’s a proven winner. It’s hard to top the 126-30 record he compiled in six seasons at Pisgah. Along the way, he led the Bears to a state championship and a 51-game winning streak and was named Associated Press State Coach of the Year in 2005.
Furthermore, he’s a local boy we’re all proud of. He played on outstanding football and basketball teams at Sylva-Webster High, where he graduated in 1985. Cullowhee High, which along with S-W, is a Smoky Mountain forerunner, also had strong basketball teams in Cleaveland’s playing days, so he has an understanding of the tradition he is trying to restore here.
But the most important reason we’re glad Cleaveland is back home is that he’s the type of person who should be working with young people. Remember, he’s not just coming as a coach but also a school administrator, and we think he will be an asset in so many ways to the entire school system.
Cleaveland is wasting no time getting started. Although he’s finishing out the year at Pisgah as an assistant principal, he was at the Smoky Mountain gym Monday conducting a workout session that drew 21 players.
Although the Mustangs have had losing records in 12 of the past 13 seasons, Cleaveland said he thinks his team can compete for a conference championship next year. We won’t be at all surprised to see that happen.
Cleaveland expressed thanks to Superintendent Sue Nations, Principal Alex Bell, Athletic Director Mutt DeGraffenreid for giving him this opportunity. We echo that sentiment and anticipate extending that gratitude to school board members once they add their stamp of approval during today’s meeting.
With the Lady Mustangs coming off a Western Regional runner-up finish and four starters, including superstar Cetera DeGraffenreid returning, and Cleaveland bringing renewed enthusiasm to the men’s program, the 2006-07 basketball season is likely to be one to remember. Fans will have to arrive early to find a seat.
Meanwhile, we hope school leaders will continue the commitment they showed in Cleaveland’s hiring as they fill head coaching positions for volleyball, baseball and softball.
Our young people deserve nothing but the best.
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