Speelmons step down as Wampus Cat head coaches

CLARK FORK — The husband-and-wife coaching team of Melvin and Carolyn Speelmon each tendered their resignations recently as head coaches at Clark Fork High School.

Melvin was the boys basketball coach for two seasons, and Carolyn was the volleyball coach for two seasons, including a third place finish at the 2009 state volleyball tournament in arguably the school’s best volleyball season ever.

Both coaches cited family obligations as the main reason for stepping down, hoping to watch more of their freshman daughter Jordan Speelmon’s high school games.

“They felt like they were missing out,” said Clark Fork athletic director Brian Arthun. “Coaching is tough on a family, a lot of time and effort.”

The search for their replacements is still going, although Arthun is close to naming a successor to the boys basketball helm. Applications are still being sought for the volleyball position.

“They both did a really good job with the kids,” Arthun said. “They’ll both be missed.”