Stefko Supporters Pack Board Meeting

Standing room crowds typically aren’t seen at meetings. But dozens of people packed into the boardroom Tuesday night to show support for Spencer Stefko, who recently was removed as girls’ basketball coach.

Current, former and future members of the basketball program along with parents and concerned residents were among those in attendance. More impressive, 18 people spoke on behalf of the beloved coach.

Several emotional speeches from current players brought tears to their eyes, and even appeared to evoke some sympathy from the board. But after more than an hour of pleas for people supporting Stefko, the board neither acted nor addressed the situation.

No board member would comment on the situation, but Chartiers Valley spokesman Chuck McCartney made a brief statement to Chartiers Valley Patch.

“We’re not going to say anything because it’s a personnel issue,” he said. “We sat and listened to a lot of people speak on his behalf. Obviously he’s loved by his players and their families. And obviously the reason for his removal was not his record.”

Stefko supporters made several statements about how the five-year coach made the girls’ basketball program relevant again. The majority of their statements, though, focused on the integrity in which Stefko coaches with.

Many parents emphasized the fact that Stefko preaches success in academics before basketball. Meanwhile, several Lady Colts’ players, including sophomore forward Kristina Coyne, who delivered a tear-jerking speech, spoke about the coach’s support in their other athletic endeavors as a key reason for their admiration of the basketball coach.

While the board remained silent about how and when the process will move forward, one source with knowledge of the situation believes that a decision on the future of Stefko with the team may be made rather soon. That same source is confident Stefko will re-apply for the position, if he hasn’t already.