Football coach speaks out after difficult week
Dirk Wedd sends letter to faculty and staff in response to backlash from transgender student protest
Coach Dirk Wedd meets with players during the Sept. 9, 2016, LHS football game.
September 22, 2017
Editors Note: Football coach Dirk Wedd sent this letter to faculty members on Thursday night and agreed to let The Budget publish it as an address to all members of the “Lion family.”
Dear Faculty and Staff,
For the past 28 years I have had the honor and privilege to work at the greatest high school in the state. Along with that, came the opportunity to work with the best faculty and the most amazing kids. The past few days have been some of the toughest in my life for me and for my family. I have been painted in a very negative light and would like the opportunity to set the record straight.
On Friday, I met with our Athletic Director and an administrator to discuss two football players and their Snapchat accounts. Although neither player’s Snapchats were shown to me, both administrators told me there was nothing on either account that warranted any discipline. They did, however, ask me to visit with the two players and tell them to be careful about what they put on social media. I visited with both players before last Friday’s game in my office.
On Saturday, on my own accord, I visited with the whole football team about being a family, reinforcing how families sometimes disagree but should always respect and love one another. I also reminded them, as I always do, to make the right choices.
On Monday, at about 12:30 p.m. Dr. Stubblefield and Dr. Brungardt came to my office and asked me to speak to the leadership team of the student protest. After speaking to my wife and lawyer, I went down and met with the students and told them my side of the story and addressed any questions or concerns the students had. Hopefully it did some good.
This week I have received hateful emails, phone calls, and even an anonymous letter on my porch. What hurts most, though, is teachers that I have taught with for 10, 15, 20 years, now won’t say hi or good morning. I’m not telling you this for sympathy but because you are my friends.
My parents brought me up—both teachers—to be sincere and honest to all people. Many of the values I have were taught to me in this building. I love coming to work every day because you are part of my family, and I hope you feel the same way. With all my heart I wish this last year is as great as the other 27 have been.
Your friend,
Dirk Wedd
Head Football Coach
Lawrence High School
