CARMEL, Ind.-- Carmel Clay schools announced Friday afternoon the termination of girls head basketball head coach Tod Windlan.
“Effective today, Carmel High School will begin the search for a new girls basketball head coach,” read a statement from district spokesperson Courtney Taylor. “We expect to have a new coach in place for the 2018-2019 season to lead our team of outstanding student athletes.”
Windlan is also a teacher at the school and he has not been fired from his teaching position, Taylor said.
The announcement comes in stark contrast to information provided this week to Call 6 Investigates by the district that Windlan was staying in his head coaching position.
The Carmel High School principal issued a letter to parents dated April 13 following what the district is calling a “thorough review” of the girls basketball program.
Carmel initiated the review after several families came forward with concerns about the program. The district has not said what those concerns were.
As part of the review, the district interviewed basketball players and other “stakeholders.”
On April 13, Carmel sent 25 letters to parents with students in the JV and Varsity program, according to district spokeswoman Courtney Taylor.
Five families received a version of the letter that indicated unrest in the program.
“We would like to let you know we appreciate you coming forward and sharing your concerns,” read the letter. “We regret that you and your daughter did not have the desired experience participating in our girls’ basketball program. Our mission is to ensure our student athletes have a rewarding experience.”
The letter from Principal Dr. Tom Harmas said the program is making changes based on parent concerns and what they found during their review.
“After analysis and deliberation, we have put in place a responsive and appropriate action plan to guide the program moving forward,” said Harmas. “As part of the plan, an open-practice policy for the women’s basketball program will be instituted moving forward. There will not be a change in the head coach position as part of this plan.”
Taylor said most practices are “closed” meaning the are for team members and coaches only.
“Some programs choose to have 'open' practices where parents can watch if they desire,” said Taylor.
Windlan has not responded to requests for comment from RTV6.
He has served as the Carmel women’s basketball coach since 2014.
Before that, Windlan worked for Warren Central High School and Hamilton Heights.
The Carmel women’s basketball program has earned numerous accolades including senior guard Amy Dilk winning the 2017-18 Girls Basketball Player of the Year Award.
The program’s season ended on February 10 with a loss to Zionsville.
