Van Nuys Made Right Move

I was shocked and disappointed by your account of the reinstatement of Dave Bessler as coach of the Van Nuys High girls’ volleyball team.

I was one of the team captains last year and as a senior at Van Nuys I’m the captain this season. I have been on the varsity since ninth grade and everything I know about volleyball I learned through the excellent program offered at Van Nuys, from an excellent coach, and from an off-season program during the spring and summer months.

It was disappointing for me, as a player with first-hand experience in the program, that my coach, my principal--Russ Thompson--and my team were blasted in this article.

Bessler is the best man for the job. Thompson made the best decision he could under the circumstances and the team will succeed in part because of his decision.

The story should have been one about dedication, service, triumph and hope.

ANGELA ECKMIER, North Hills

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Your article about the Van Nuys High girls’ volleyball program was critical of a member of our coaching staff. The article was also critical of the decision that was made to hire that coach.

As the Van Nuys principal, I am responsible for the education and welfare of 3,500 students. Sometimes, when looking out for the welfare of those students, it is necessary for me to make decisions that are unpopular with some staff members. Sometimes, those decisions might also be unpopular with sportswriters.

I care deeply about the welfare of our students. I will continue to do my best to make decisions that are in the best interest of our students.

RUSS THOMPSON, Van Nuys