On Sunday, February 2, West Lauderdale celebrated the careers of two long-time faculty members, Coach Hurst and Coach Clark, in an event held in the high school gym. The occasion recognized their decades of hard work, the countless students they have mentored, and the legacy they will leave behind.

Coach Hurst has been a part of West Lauderdale for 42 years, 12 as a student and 30 as an employee. Over the years, he has coached girls’ basketball, softball, baseball, and golf.

When reflecting on his career, Hurst said, “I think the big thing about coaching is not necessarily the wins and the losses, but the relationships you have with the players [and] getting to see your former players… go on and be successful in life. [Those things] are very special to me.”

Besides coaching, he shared that he will miss the close-knit community of West Lauderdale, especially “the atmosphere, faculty, and students.”

As he looks ahead toward retirement, Hurst plans to spend time with his wife and “do some traveling.”

Similarly, Coach Clark has been at West Lauderdale for a long time, having been a student for 11 years and an employee for 35. He has coached basketball and track while also teaching history and special education.

Looking back on his career, Clark expressed pride in the impact he has made on his students: “I [have] a lot of kids that I personally have been in contact with and turned out to have great careers.”

Additionally, he is happy to “[see] them grow up into well rounded individuals beyond basketball.”

When asked what he will miss most about West Lauderdale, Clark shared that he will miss the students.

As for his retirement plans, he plans to “do nothing. Absolutely nothing.”

Coach Hurst and Coach Clark have made a lasting impact at West Lauderdale through their years of hard work and commitment. Their dedication to both the athletic programs and the school has shaped the lives of many students. As they move on to the next chapter, their contributions will continue to be remembered and appreciated.