UPDATED – 4-15-25

Tomorrow night’s West Branch School BOE meeting has some twists and turns,

After declining to rehire veteran girls basketball coach Walt DeShields in a very controversial move, the BOE, with a recommendation from the administration to do so will vote to rehire him in that position.

Also on the agenda is an item to approve the resignation of Board member Aaron Hawk.

(4-10-25) Long-time West Branch Girls Basketball Coach Walt DeShields was told on March 31st that he would not be returning after 20 seasons as the head coach.

During those years DeShields led the Warriors to a 379-110 record (a 76% winning percentage) with state semifinal appearances in 2015 and 2020 and eight league titles and he never had a losing season in those 20 years.

West Branch finished the 2024-2025 campaign with a 22-3 overall record.

DeShields was named the Eastern Buckeye Conference Coach of the Year for the second consecutive season, as well as the Northeast Inland District Coach of the Year.

DeShields earned the prestigious Sportsmanship, Ethics & Integrity Award from the OHSAA in 2024, and the Bob Arzen Award for 20 or more consecutive years at the same school.

DeShields is in his 38th year of teaching, including 31 at West Branch. He has taught the last three school years under the retire-rehire plan. Those teachers in that plan were recently told they probably would not return to the classroom due to impending state budget cuts. But he wanted to return as the head coach.

The situation has gained attention around Ohio, both DeShields and West Branch have issued statements.

DeShields said in a statement

Complete statement from West Branch that was sent out Wednesday afternoon by Athletic Director Ryan Wolf

The West Branch Local School District acknowledges and appreciates the passion and dedication that both past and present members of the community have shown regarding the decision surrounding the girls’ basketball coaching position. We have heard a wide range of perspectives from former players, parents, and alumni, and we take all concerns raised very
seriously.

After careful consideration of the feedback, as well as a thorough review of the situation, the West Branch Local School District remains committed to ensuring the well-being and success of all students. The primary responsibility of the District is to provide a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment where every student has the opportunity to thrive, both academically and athletically.

We understand that Coach Walt DeShields has had a significant and lasting impact on many of his former players and has contributed to the success of the girls’ basketball program. His leadership, dedication, and commitment to the sport have helped shape the program into a respected powerhouse in the region. We also acknowledge the strong bonds formed among the players, and the personal growth that many attribute to his coaching.

The District recognizes that the decision may be difficult for some, and that it has sparked a range of emotions within the community. We are committed to fostering an atmosphere where respect and accountability are paramount. We are confident that with the right leadership, the girls’ basketball program will continue to thrive and uphold the high standards that have made it a source of pride for the entire West Branch community.

At the same time, the District must also prioritize the safety, emotional well-being, and mental health of all student-athletes. Certain incidents raised by members of the community concerning Coach DeShields’ behavior have generated significant concerns regarding his judgment, which are not consistent with the district’s priorities. These concerns, combined with the responsibility to uphold the integrity of the West Branch athletic programs, have led to the difficult decision to seek new leadership for the girls’ basketball team.

Moving forward, the District will work diligently to ensure a seamless transition in leadership and to provide a positive, empowering experience for the student-athletes. We appreciate the ongoing support from the community as we continue to strive for the best possible outcomes for all students.