RV football coach steps down

River Valley High is without a football coach once again.

After serving two years as head coach of the Falcons, Troy Alexander has stepped down from the position, noting a difference of philosophy with the administration as the primary reason for the decision.

"I wasn't asked or told; I didn't have any meetings. It wasn't a case of 'step down or your fired,' which is sometimes the case. I just kind of felt the obstacles were too much to overcome," Alexander said. "It wasn't in my best interest to stay."

Alexander, who coached with the junior varsity for two years, took over the varsity program just 10 days before the Falcons' first game in 2007, following the sudden firing of then-coach John Scott. However, the team finished 6-4 despite the situation.

The Falcons' 2008 season began with rumblings of inner turmoil and a split between players, but a senior group aided in uniting the team midway through the season and led the squad in an upset win over Wheatland. River Valley finished the season a disappointing 3-7.

"We cut down on the discipline problems and focused on grades more this year," Alexander said. "That's the positive that I got out of it.

"Overall, it's a young program, and every young program goes through its growing pains and different philosophies," Alexander said. "There was a big difference in philosophy in terms of how to bring about a winning program. It's not one person's fault, I just think they weren't ready for a lot of my philosophies."

Alexander also commented on the Falcons' support system.

"Financially, the program is in great shape and they have a lot of support," Alexander said. "I really do hope they get the best coach for those kids. I wish them well."

And although Alexander wants to get back to coaching, he's not rushing anything.

"I still want to coach somewhere, but I'm looking forward to getting some rest," he said.