PORT TOWNSEND — Stopping short of doing a touchdown dance, Port Townsend Redskins football players left a School Board meeting Monday night feeling victorious.
The Port Townsend School District board unanimously agreed to postpone a hiring committee’s decision to replace popular head football coach Dan Fountain until another meeting.
Board members were expected to approve replacing Fountain with a new hire, Tom Sly, from Gig Harbor.
But before a dozen of players and two parents got a chance to endorse Fountain — who led the Redskins to a 9-2 season last year — to the School Board, the board unanimously voted to reconsider Fountain’s post next month.
After the vote, board Vice Chair John Eissinger said the issue will be postponed until another School Board meeting, likely June 13.
The board will meet at 7 p.m. in the Lincoln Building, 450 Fir St.
Public comment
After the board action, Eissinger opened the meeting for a public comment period, comprised mostly of testimonials from players, who likened Fountain to a brother — and his coaching to having a father on a field.
“He is very good for the team,” said player Andy Palmer.
Redskins players said all Port Townsend football coaches and players are one big family who would not be complete without coaches like Fountain, who also coached the Redskins from 1995 to 2000.
“Not only have they been our coaches, but they have also been our friends,” said junior Steve Smith.
His comments and those of other teammates were followed by applause from the audience.
