Camas High School head softball coach Ken Nidick was not in the dugout during Wednesday’s home game against Battle Ground because he has been put on administrative leave by the district.
Public Information Officer Doreen McKercher said Nidick was notified Wednesday morning before school started. He also teaches science at the high school. The softball players were told about the decision after school, and then a letter was sent out to softball parents. It was signed by Principal Steve Marshall and Athletic Director Rory Oster.
Nidick has served as head coach since 2009. The Papermakers have qualified for the state tournament four times during that period, finishing as high as second place in 2013.
Both McKercher and Oster say Nidick’s investigation has nothing to do with a former softball coach who faces criminal charges.
“This is just a communication issue, and that’s it,” McKercher said.
Oster said varsity assistant Tim Searight will serve as the interim head softball coach. McKercher said Nidick is on leave from coaching and teaching. She doesn’t know for how long.
More information will be published in the Post-Record as soon as it becomes available.
Letter to softball parents
Dear Softball Parents,
We wanted to reach out to each of you before tonight’s home game against Battle Ground to let you know that Coach Nidick is on leave pending the outcome of an investigation. The issue of concern relates to communication with students. Due to Ken’s absence, we are working to reassign coaches on an interim basis.
I, along with our Athletic Director Rory Oster, shared this information with the varsity softball team after school today. Mr. Oster encouraged the girls and reminded them that the coaches and players have worked incredibly hard this season and that their success to this point has been due in large part to their teamwork and dedication – two qualities upon which they will rely this afternoon. We emphasized that CHS administrative, counseling, and teaching staff are available to support them and assist them in any way needed.
Due to confidentiality laws, this is the only information we can release at this time. We do want you to know that the safety and well-being of our students is one of our highest priorities and for that reason we take all concerns regarding staff and students seriously. If you have questions regarding your daughter or the softball season, please contact us by phone or email. Mr. Oster’s contact information is (360) 833-5760 and rory.oster@camas.wednet.edu. You can contact me at (360) 833-5750 or steve.marshall@camas.wednet.edu.
Sincerely,
Steve Marshall, CHS Principal
Rory Oster, CSD Athletic Director
