Longtime CC-C Coach Resigns Amid Tensions with Superintendent

BREAKING: Grant Woodman, the highly respected cross country and track coach at Carson City-Crystal Area Schools, has officially resigned. His resignation, submitted on November 13, 2024, comes amid escalating tensions with Superintendent John Sattler over significant changes to the athletics program.

Woodman, who has dedicated 14 years to coaching at CC-C, cited that recent modifications made by Sattler regarding team structures were “the last straw.” He expressed his concerns about the separation of the boys and girls cross country teams, which he felt undermined the unity and success of the program.

In a statement to the Daily News, Woodman revealed, “I was told the cross country teams were going to be split. This was done in a very public setting and I got the idea that the decision had already been made. It was a decision made way above me.” This decision has raised eyebrows, particularly given that the school is a Division 4 institution with limited student-athletes.

The resignation was unanimously approved during a school board meeting on Monday night, with a 6-0 vote from the board, though not without concern from board members. Trustee Matthew Barker expressed disappointment, stating, “I feel like that’s a major loss for our school district. He was a great coach.”

Woodman’s tenure has been marked by significant achievements, including leading the boys’ teams to multiple state championships. His departure highlights a troubling trend within the district’s athletic department, which has seen considerable turnover in coaching staff.

In a shocking turn of events, Superintendent Sattler restructured the high school principal duties without board approval, further complicating the already strained relationships within the district. The board president, Mark Jensen, confirmed these changes were made to alleviate duties but did not clarify the lack of a formal vote.

Woodman’s decision to step down is not just a personal loss for him but a significant moment for the CC-C community, who have witnessed a series of coaching changes in recent years. The former coach has now accepted a position at Fulton schools, where he will take on varsity coaching roles.

As the news continues to develop, stakeholders within the CC-C community are left to ponder the future of its athletic programs and the impact of administrative decisions on student-athletes. The board’s next steps regarding hiring a new coach and addressing the community’s concerns will be closely watched.

With Woodman’s departure, one question looms: what will it take for the CC-C administration to stabilize its athletic programs and retain its dedicated coaching talent? The community is eager for answers as they navigate these challenges.

Stay tuned for further updates on this story as it unfolds.