The West Branch Local Schools Board of Education has informed longtime girls basketball coach Walt DeShields that he will not be returning to lead the Lady Warriors next season—a decision that has sparked widespread backlash from the community and former players.
DeShields, who has coached the program for the past 20 years, amassed a record of 379 wins with no losing seasons, eight league championships, and two trips to the OHSAA Final Four. His son, Kip DeShields, posted on social media that the coach was told the district is “moving in a different direction.”
“Anyone familiar with this program and Coach DeShields knows that losing is never part of the equation—so based on that statement, it seems like losing is exactly what they’re choosing,” Kip wrote. “Coaching is NOT something he wants to be done with yet.”
In addition to his success on the court, Walt DeShields was the 2023-2024 recipient of the OHSAA Sportsmanship Award—an honor presented to only one coach statewide. Over the past 15 years, his teams posted 20 or more wins in 12 seasons.
News of the decision quickly spread across social media, where hundreds of current and former students, athletes, and parents voiced their support for DeShields and questioned the board’s decision.
“This has to be one of the all-time worst moves by West Branch in sports and at the education level,” one former student wrote. “Walt was a teacher of mine for several years, truly a great guy and phenomenal coach. I don’t understand this move at all and hope he is re-hired back.”
Another parent shared a more personal reflection: “So disappointed. How do you answer your 12-year-old when she is asking why, and you don’t know why? My child dreams of playing for Walt at West Branch.”
Several commenters highlighted DeShields’ influence beyond the game, crediting him with inspiring players to pursue coaching and instilling values of confidence and character in his athletes.
“As a community, we should all stand behind Coach DeShields,” one parent wrote. “He made a great impact on our daughter… He was the one who pointed her in the direction of being a coach too, which she is.”
“Please reinstate Coach DeShields,” another commenter pleaded. “To say this is unfair is truly an understatement.”
Superintendent Micki Egli informed JMN via email that the board is having an emergency meeting Wednesday night, April 2.
“Show up,” Kip DeShields urged. “We thank you for any and all support and hope this can be resolved.”
