I am writing in support of former South Portland High School boys basketball coach Phil Conley after reading about his resignation in the May 16 edition of the Portland Press Herald.

Boy! Times have certainly changed! It is ridiculous that parents are now taking over the coaching responsibilities of our children from the sidelines and that student athletes themselves think they are in control.

I am willing to bet that none of these parents could run a program, teach the kids teamwork skills, manage multiple personalities or even win a single game.

Shame, shame on the South Portland administrators. I can’t believe they would not renew the contract of a coach who has clearly been the best thing that’s happened to the program in the last decade.

This proves that the administrators are once again clueless in protecting their coaching staff.

Phil Conley is an excellent basketball coach. He has proven this with a winning record and a 2013 Western Maine championship. He is also an excellent teacher, mentor and person.

Thank you, Phil, for all you did. I know you will be back on the sidelines in a different gym soon with kids, parents and administrators who respect you. Good luck, Phil! We are rooting for you!

Fran Aceto

Portland