In this, my first experience in dealing with a member of the news media, I have been quick to learn that vagaries and anything but intended language should be avoided in correspondences with anyone carying a press pass.

What was presented as “reasons of conflict with athletic department heads,” is in this case very simple: the period of consideration for my contract had lapsed, with conditions not yet met and agreed upon by both parties. A new contract with more agreeable terms was pending prior to the above press release by Chuck Cox.

The ESD Athletic Department and administrators have been wonderfully supportive of me and our rowing program. I take great pride in being an alumnus of the Episcopal School of Dallas.

I look forward to sharing with Mr. Cox and Preston Hollow People the details of my summer coaching experience at the Junior World Rowing Championships in Great Britain.

Sincerely,

Matt Naifeh

Probably long hours and low pay for virtually all private school part-time coaches regardless of sport. I know for a fact that several other part-time coaches (who aren’t at ESD) are paid less than $6,000 per year. You have to really love what you do and not need much money to do that. God, bless’em!

Dan, why do you use the word “understandably?”

I would think ESD would love to talk about its athletic, art, music, drama, clubs, etc. and get some “good” press?!

I would think the coaches, advisers, teachers, etc. who oversee these groups would love to tell you what they are doing.

Given the chance, they “fumble” this opportunity?! How disappointing.

Understandable since ESD has lawyers to pay, crisis management company to pay and ex-CFO on paid leave since 11/15/2010.

ESD’s check book must be low right now…