Sheridan School Board Releases Statement Regarding Coach Wright's Resignation

SHERIDAN, Ind. — The administration of Sheridan Community Schools has stated that the resignation of legendary coach Bud Wright “was not in line” with previously established agreements.

Wright announced his resignation on Tuesday, revealing to a local news outlet that he was given an ultimatum by the current administration: he could either resign or face termination.

The coach explained that he was informed “several” families had voiced concerns about him, which pressured the administration into taking action. However, when Wright sought further details about these claims, no additional information was provided.

After careful consideration, Wright opted to resign.

In a statement released Wednesday, the administration clarified that his resignation did not adhere to the agreements made between Wright, his family, and his legal adviser in September. They had agreed that Wright would announce his retirement prior to January 1 but would not formally resign.

Wright has an impressive legacy with the Blackhawks; he coached for 59 out of his 60 years and led the team to nine state championships over three decades, along with ten semi-state titles, 15 regional championships, and 22 sectional championships.

The Sheridan Community Schools (SCS) Board of School Trustees would like to address and correct any misinformation regarding Coach Bud Wright following his retirement announcement yesterday. It is important to clarify that SCS administration worked with Coach Wright, his legal advisor, and his family back in September. At that time, a mutual agreement was reached that the 2024 season would be Coach Wright’s final year as Head Coach of the Blackhawks. Although SCS offered to announce his retirement then, Coach Wright chose not to do so, and the school respected his decision. Plans were also discussed to celebrate his career during the last home football game of the regular season; however, Coach Wright declined this as well.

As part of the agreement made in September, SCS appointed two Associate Head Coaches to manage day-to-day operations and oversee game-day activities. Coach Wright fully supported this plan and the decision to announce his retirement.

When the parties met in September, it was agreed that Coach Wright would make his retirement announcement before January 1, 2025. The announcement made yesterday was not in line with that agreement.

We would also like to express our gratitude to Coach Jake Chesney and Coach Kevin Wright, Coach Bud Wright’s son, for their dedication to our program this season and their contributions as Associate Head Coaches.

We deeply respect and appreciate all that Coach Wright has done for the High School Football program, the Sheridan Community, and beyond. His legacy will continue to be honored as future Blackhawks take the field at Bud Wright Stadium. SCS will begin the search for our next coach immediately to ensure the continued success of the program.

The Sheridan Community Schools Board of School Trustees