End of an era

Bond retires as Tigerette coach after more than 30 years

DCHS Tigerette Softball Coach Danny Bond will retire from coaching after more than 30 years with the program.

DCHS Principal Kathy Bryant has announced that Bond will take over the Alternative Learning Center Director left vacant by the retirement of Marshall Ferrell. In a letter announcing his retirement from coaching sent to Director of Schools Patrick Cripps, Principal Bryant, and school board members, the coach wrote:

“I have given my heart, mind, and soul to the student athletes and softball program. My blood runs black and gold as deep as anyone. I will continue to be a strong supporter of the Tigerette Softball program, its athletes, and the school system. My loyalty and dedication to DeKalb County High School will remain relentless. I retire from this position with no ill feelings toward anyone. I hope to receive your support and respect in this decision.

“I want to give my appreciation to the past and present Directors of Schools, School Board members, Administrations, and fellow Coaches that have given me the opportunity to coach softball. I offer my deepest gratitude to the personnel, the many players, and their families for allowing me to be a part of their lives. I sincerely thank my family and friends for their support and encouragement over the years. I leave the softball program with a solid foundation and a bright, promising future.”

Bond’s career in education began more than 35 years ago. He started as a P.E. teacher at DeKalb West School in 1980, where he started the school’s first P.E. program, as well as serving as DCHS Tiger Basketball Coach Harold Luna’s assistant until 1984.

He left DeKalb West in 1985 to become P.E. teacher at DCHS. He took over the position of head coach of the Tiger basketball team, and became coach of the newly-formed Tigerette softball program the next year. Bond left his position as boy’s basketball coach in 2002, but continued to oversee the softball team.

In 31 seasons coaching the Tigerettes, Bond had an overall record of 680-258-1 (a .725 average). His district record stands at 293-56 (.840).

His successor has not yet been named.

During his tenure with the Tigerettes, the coach also compiled:

•17 Regular Season District Titles

•15 District Tournament Titles

•24 Region Tournament Appearances

•6 Region Tournament Titles

•12 Sub-State Appearances

•8 Sub-State Titles

•8 State Tournament Appearances

•1 State Final Four Appearance

•11 District Coach of the Year Honors