buzby

SomeoneSpecial - I can understand how you feel. It is embarassing. Makes you wonder???? I am also wondering why Jeff Mathews didn't get an interview. He has not worked as long as Briggs (he's younger) and has not worked at BC at all. Yet, his family is from BC, he graduated from BC, he was the first football player to get a scholarship in about 20 years, his brother graduated from BC and went pro in fball, his sister was an excellent BC athlete & now works for BC and his mother served many years as a BCISD employee. A courtesy interview would have been nice. I am not trying to convince anyone that Mathews or Briggs would be the best one for the job. I am simply wondering what in the world is going on. When you look at the history of these two men and realize that they either (#1) left Bridge City for another job or (#2) didn't accept a job with Bridge City in the past, it makes someone wonder if a personal grudge up top isn't getting in the way of doing what might be best for the kids. Who's in charge anyway????

I have to agree with BigBlue. I just don't see how a coach can take kids with little talent and turn them into something they are not. I know there can be some improvement with coaching. Coaches are able to motivate, too. I give them credit for that. But, they are not magicians. The kids have to be equipped somehow with talent. And, the kids need to have the DESIRE to win. It is not ALL up the coaches. Furthermore, I want coaches for my kids who are not only there to win. I hope my kids can look up to their coaches as role models at school and in the community. Let's hope BC hires someone with integrity and strong moral values.

Just wondering what scale you use to judge coaches? Before Mathews became Head Coach in Vidor, they were the 5th most losing program in Texas. If I recall correctly, they then had the best school record twice in 15 or 20 years. They also had their first play-off appearance in some 20 years with Mathews coaching there. Apparently, the coaches for 15-20 years before Mathews could not do what he did. I am not putting them down. I am not a coach and surely cannot sit here and judge them. I just know what I see. Mathews was able to do something in Vidor when others couldn't. I also remember him receiving honors of Coach of the Year in the county or district. Not sure who nominates or decides on that. But, someone felt he deserved those honors. I know that doesn't make him a super-star coach, but let's give him credit where credit is due.

I actually do know Mathews and have known him for years. I have seen how he handles situations at school, on the field, in the community, with family, etc. Like I said before, I'd be happy to have him coach my son. I want someone with character coaching my son.

Has Briggs ever been an offensive or defensive coordinator, or a head football coach? Not sure if they'll take that into consideration - but they might.

Sounds like there are some really qualified guys who could fill the spot in BC. No matter who they choose, it appears it'll be a good fit. I still think Mathews is the guy. He is also from BC - raised there and graduated from BC. As far as being able to win, I have heard other reputable coaches sing Mathews' praises about the job he's done in Vidor with little to work with. He's also the kind of guy to stick it out even when the going gets tough. He doesn't have a record of moving from school to school or of bad-mouthing other programs. In my opinion, he's a good guy all the way around. Just my two cents. But, if you really want to find out what kind of guy and coach he is, just call Hooks, Neauman, Stowers, Burnett, etc.

I have to disagree with you about your reasons for not considering Mathews. First of all, there are plenty of coaches who have losing records at one school but have moved on to other schools and been quite successful (i.e., Todd Dodge). Looking only at records isn't always the best way to determine who's best for a job. Second, do you even know WHY Mathews passed up the opportunity to go to BC the first time? Without knowing all the facts, let's not be too quick to assume he passed up his "chance" without a good reason. Mathews is a man of his word who has a heart for the kids. He has his priorities right. And, yes, you are right he is a motivator. Wouldn't you want that kind of man coaching your kids? I would.