EBA football coach resigns
By Diana Royal Staff Writer

BLACKSTOCK

Edmund Burke Academy's athletic director and head football coach resigned Monday - just hours before a meeting in which a large group of parents intended to complain to board members about his behavior.

Jeremy Blackstock, who had just been named to those positions for the 2007-2008 school term, cited his reason for leaving as "strictly a family decision."

The cause of the recent controversy concerning EBA's football team and Blackstock appears to be a matter of opinion, but one thing is for sure - the Spartans still have four football games ahead of them.

They'll now be led by Jerry Davis, who had been the team's offensive coordinator, as well as offensive and defensive line and strength coach.

Davis says taking on the role is awkward, given the circumstances, "but you deal with the hand you're dealt … the guys need to refocus and get positive … if their heads are not in the game, it's going to be a long four weeks."

According to EBA Headmaster Brent Cribb, Blackstock's resignation comes as a disappointment.

"I was looking forward to him finishing the season … that was my intent," he said, adding that he will take over athletic director responsibilities. "We'll finish the season and go from there. Whatever God's intended purpose is for this school, I have full faith in it."

Blackstock referred to his resignation as "just one of those things that happens," while also commenting that he had nothing but respect for Cribb and the school.

"I hope the guys keep working hard and finish the season strong," he said.

While a senior player was reportedly removed from the team, The True Citizen was unable to confirm this via a school official or board member.

So far this season, the Spartans remain winless with an 0-6 record. They finished the 2006 season as Region 2-AA runnerup and advanced to the Final Four in state play. Several players did not return after the resignation of Beau Johnson, who had been serving as athletic director and head football coach prior to Blackstock.

The young team has struggled on both sides of the ball this season, but Blackstock continuously commented on their ability to do great things. Davis shared that sentiment, saying repeatedly they just need to focus.