Blackwell out as York girls basketball coach

Paula Blackwell has been relieved of her position as girls’ basketball coach at York Comprehensive High School, effective Tuesday.

“We appreciate everything Paula has done at YCHS,” said athletic director Steve Boyd, who confirmed the news.

“She’s been in the program for a long time,” he said. “She’s dedicated to the program and has worked very hard. Paula has been very loyal to us. We wish her the best.”

Blackwell, who came to York in 1999 as an assistant coach to Arsonia Stroud, said she’s been besieged by supporters wishing her well via text messages and emails.

“York wanted to go in a different direction, and I’m excited about a different direction for myself as well,” she said. “This was hard to take at first because I am so deeply rooted in this community with my coaching and teaching.

“I will really miss the relationships with my colleagues and the players. Wow! Hard to believe it’s over.”

She added: “My work in York is done, according to God’s plan, and I am excited to see where the path leads.”

Boyd said he appreciates her contributions. “She’s one we could always count on to go beyond the basketball court for us. She’s been a good role model for our kids,” he said.

Boyd said Blackwell has had the opportunity to talk to the players and coaches.

He said Maria Duncan, director of human resources, is posting the job vacancy at the school district office.

“The head coaching position was effectively opened Tuesday,” Boyd said. “We are going to search and try to find the best quality coach we can.”

“We want to continue to build this program. I’m going to do everything I can as athletic director to make sure that our kids have success.”

This story was originally published March 11, 2015 at 11:12 AM with the headline "Blackwell out as York girls basketball coach."