Whittington named head basketball coach
Barry Whittington Jr. has been named the new Tigers’ head girl’s basketball coach. Whittington Jr. has been the assistant coach for the boys’ team for the past three years, and head coach for the middle school program, and led his team to a Championship last year.
According to Principal Dr. Esrom Pitre it was not an easy task in naming a coach.
“We want a leader with character, integrity and enthusiasm, but I think the number one thing that our players want is a players coach and someone that would really relate to them and continue good strong relationships and unite them as a group," Pitre said. “With Barry, we have found that, and I feel he will do a great job.”
Furthermore he stated that Barry is not only a coach but also a core subject ‘math’ teacher. “We were looking for someone who is committed to the coexistence of academic and athletic excellence.”
Whittington Jr., an East Ascension and LSU graduate, has been at DHS for the past three years teaching Math, as well as coaching athletics.
Coach Whittington says he has several goals for his girls’.
“Even though the team will have a new look, the expectations are still the same. My goal is to have a well-disciplined team that is never outworked. As far as wins and losses, those will take care of themselves. I also have a goal to have a team GPA above 3.0 for each semester.”
Besides basketball, he says he plans on teaching his team to be responsible young women that can handle anything life throws at them. I am going to do that by presenting them with adverse situations and helping them through them. Also, my actions will be a great teaching point. It's one thing to tell them how to handle something, but another thing to show them.
“Barry has the potential to create a winning and successful basketball program, and the Donaldsonville High family looks forward to his success.”
Whittington says that he has learned a lot in previous experiences about coaching, “always be prepared, only worry about the things you can control, and keep things simple.”
Whittington says that the influences in his life he is most thankful for is his parents. “They have always supported me in everything that I've done since I can remember. They have taught me the value of my faith, and hard work. I wouldn't be the man I am today without them.”
ABOUT HIS COACHING PHILOSOHPY
“My view on any team sport is that it should help supplement the objectives and goals of the school. I am a teacher first and my players are students first. It's imperative that I stress the importance of education to my players and how it can relate to the court.”