Grant Woodman, the esteemed cross country and track coach at Carson City-Crystal Area Schools, has resigned after 14 years, citing ongoing issues with Superintendent John Sattler. Woodman’s resignation was accepted by the school board on November 13, 2024, marking a significant transition in the district’s athletic landscape.
The coach expressed that recent changes imposed by Sattler regarding the structure of the cross country team were “the last straw.” Woodman, who has been a pivotal figure in the athletic program, previously led the boys’ teams to state championships. He has voiced concerns about Sattler’s management style and decisions over the past four years, which he believes have negatively impacted the coaching environment.
Under Sattler’s administration, the responsibilities of high school principal were shifted from one employee to the athletic director without prior school board consultation. This decision has raised eyebrows among board members and the community.
Woodman began coaching the Eagle cross country program in 2012 and took on track and field responsibilities in 2016. His track record includes significant achievements, including a successful tenure as a counselor within the school district. After moving to Fulton Schools in Middleton, Woodman’s recent resignation reflects both personal and professional challenges.
In 2021, Woodman experienced a reassignment from his previous role as an elementary school counselor to the upper elementary/middle school, an adjustment he did not welcome. In 2023, he also faced a reduction in coaching pay, which added to his frustrations. This year, the school board approved the hiring of Patrick McCarty Jr. as the new varsity girls track coach, with McCarty Sr. taking over middle school track coaching duties. Woodman retained his position for the boys’ teams but was informed of a split in the cross country teams during a public meeting, which he felt undermined his role and authority.
“We’re a Division 4 school, we’re a small school,” he stated. “To split them was not a decision I made, and it was concerning.” He noted that the separation created a distinct divide between the boys’ and girls’ teams, which he felt was detrimental to the program.
Despite his decision to resign, Woodman emphasized that he held no ill will towards the McCarty family or their coaching methods. However, he felt compelled to step away due to the changes that had been implemented unilaterally by Sattler.
Board members expressed regret over Woodman’s resignation during the school board meeting. Trustee Matthew Barker described it as a significant loss for the district, while Trustee Ryan Lankford highlighted the importance of continuity in coaching for the development of student-athletes.
In his resignation letter, Woodman stated, “I feel that the goals for the program and the athletes I have coached have, in large part, been achieved and I think now is the right time to move on and give others a chance to lead the program.” The board voted unanimously to accept his resignation.
As the district navigates this transition, questions surrounding coach turnover and the overall stability of the athletic program linger. Recent years have seen several changes in athletic leadership, including the resignation of athletic director Travis Wilcox in May 2023 following a public disagreement with Sattler, and the departure of football coach Tim Swore in early 2024.
Board President Mark Jensen noted that Woodman had raised concerns previously but had not communicated any recent issues. He reiterated confidence in the direction of the district’s athletic programs under Sattler’s leadership. Jensen asserted that Sattler prioritizes academic achievement, which has influenced the management of athletic programs.
In November, the school board extended Sattler’s contract through 2030, with an annual salary of $122,038 and additional compensation for his role as special education director.
As the Carson City-Crystal Area Schools community reflects on Woodman’s contributions and the implications of his departure, it remains to be seen how the district will address its coaching turnover and foster a supportive environment for its athletic programs moving forward.
