Former Polk County athletic director Jeff Wilson made what he called one of the toughest decisions of his life when he retired at the end of June after 29 years with Polk County Schools.
He’s now made another choice that proved equally as difficult.
Originally planning to remain the school’s softball coach, Wilson informed his team Thursday night that he has decided to resign from that position as well, stepping away after 19 seasons with the program.
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“Another opportunity for me came open. I prayed a simple prayer that God would open some doors for me as far as some different things go,” said Wilson, who said he couldn’t yet discuss his next move. “There’s another opportunity I want to explore. It’s one of the hardest things I’ve had to do. I’m leaving an outstanding team with even better kids.”
Taking over the softball program in 1996, Wilson amassed a career record of 353-135, winning seven conference championships along the way. The final of those came this season, when the Wolverines swept defending champion Madison en route to claiming the Western Highlands Conference title and reaching the third round of the state 2A playoffs.
Polk County graduated just four seniors from its 21-4 squad and will return six starters, five of those earning all-WHC honors this season, including conference pitcher of the year Ashley Scruggs.
“I loved what I did, I loved these girls and I loved Polk County,” Wilson said. “It’s been a great ride. I’m very thankful I had the chance to do this, to interact in their lives and hopefully help make them more confident young ladies that can handle anything life has to offer. I also want to thank all of my assistant coaches for all of their help.
“The timing was never going to be right for this. But I feel like the timing is as good as it can be for me and my life in general.”
