By Savannah Sorensen
On Tuesday, April 29, Atlantic head football coach Nick Ross announced his resignation to the football players in the auditorium after school. Ross was offered a teaching position and the sophomore head football coaching position in Waukee. Ross accepted Monday night. Business teacher Natalie Ross has also accepted a position in Waukee.
Nick Ross said, “Natalie and I were both offered teaching positions. It’s a very good opportunity for our family. (The decision) was personal and very hard. This is my hometown and it was always a dream of mine to coach here (in Atlantic).”
AHS special teams coordinator and JV coach Bryan Woods said, “We are all pretty surprised. He’s making decisions for his family and that should always be the most important thing. It’s sad to see him go, but he is a great leader. I know that he’s doing what’s best for him and I’m glad that he’s getting this opportunity.”
While this is a huge shock to the members of the football team, they are trying not to dwell on the situation. Junior Brody Peterson, speaking of the senior players, said, “It’s our turn to be the leaders without Ross to look up to. He’s been here since our grade came into the high school. We’ve always had him to look up to. I cried when he told us, but it’s just another bump in the road. We’ll get over it and come out even better than before.”
Junior Tyler Thomas said, “Us senior leaders and captains need to step up and attempt to fill his shoes the best we can. It’s just another big obstacle.”
Sophomore Brendan Holmes said, “We’re going to have to work twice as hard. Our seniors are going to have to step up and lead us. Everyone needs to step up. I cried at first, I was shocked. He’s always been there for me and been a leader in my life and is always there for help.”
Nick Ross said, “It’s hard leaving the kids of the program and how hard they have worked to make the program better. I want people to realize how hard the kids have really worked and they have made improvements. The boys are committed to be the best.”
The team has had morning weights and has put in off-season work. Even with the news announced on Tuesday afternoon, the players met in the gym early Wednesday morning to throw the football around and continue to improve and work hard. Ross said, “The leaders are taking care of business. The players decide how well they work, the confidence to win and get it done on Friday nights.” What’s next for the program? According to Woods, “It’s still the same as before. The success is determined by the players. The coaches just help guide them.”
Ross said, “I’d like to thank all the coaches for all they’ve done and most importantly the boys for all their hard work.”
