Eason steps down as Lee-Scott softball coach

By Tom Peavy

Published: May 29, 2008

After six years at the helm of Lee-Scott’s softball program, head coach Kevin Eason is stepping down.

Citing business concerns in his full-time job in the banking industry, Eason said he felt the need to step down now instead of taking a chance on trying to get in another year of coaching. He has already turned in his resignation notice and it will take effect June 10.

“It’s just the economy right now,” Eason said. “I’m in the banking industry and I wasn’t sure I’d be as flexible during softball season next year.

“It wouldn’t be fair to the players for me to start the year and realize I couldn’t do it or couldn’t put in the time you have to put into coaching.”

Eason compiled a 137-67-3 record in his six years as head coach.

He led the Warriors to five consecutive state tournament appearances, finishing third last year. LSA also captured three consecutive Region crowns under Eason’s guidance.

“It was a tough decision to leave now,” Eason said. “I really planned to continue until I realized I might not be able to do it.

“But I kept putting the decision off and putting it off — just a very tough decision to make.”

No definite timeline is set to finding Eason’s replacement, but Eason said he’s already given some ideas to athletic director Bobby Samford.

“I’ve mentioned coaches, including some of the current assistants,” Eason said. “But whoever gets the job will have a solid group to work with next year.”

Samford said he feels Eason has left the program in great shape for whoever is next in line for the job.

“We think we’re in good shape,” Samford said. “We don’t want to say a whole lot about who we might be looking at, but I can say there is definitely a plan in place.”

Eason will not only be leaving the LSA softball program, he’ll be leaving a void in several other athletic programs at the school.

During volleyball season Eason was instrumental with travel arrangements and statistics. He also served as a bus driver for teams during basketball season.

“It’ll be tough (replacing Eason),” Samford said. “But that’s his call and it’s part of what we have to do every now and then.”

| 737-2568