(Updated) Clamon out as Bloomingdale softball coach

Posted Oct 20, 2011 by Nick Williams

Updated Oct 21, 2011 at 12:58 PM

Mike Clamon wanted to end his coaching career on his own terms. Clamon said that was understood by the Bloomingdale administration.

Earlier this school year, Clamon, who has coached the Bloomingdale softball team since 1993, informed the school this upcoming season would be his last after 18 years. Last week, however, Clamon was informed he would not be brought back for the 2012 season.

In an email sent to the Tribune on Thursday, Bloomingdale athletic director Danielle Shotwell said “We are thankful for Coach Clamon’s years of service to our school and the softball program. We plan to advertise the position next week and hope to find a quality applicant who can carry on the tradition of success already established and also contribute as a teacher on staff.”

Since 1995, Clamon has guided the Bulls to 12 region playoff appearances and two state tournament appearances. Bloomingdale lost in the Class 6A state championship in 1997 and lost in the 6A state semifinals in 2004. In 2009, the team reached the 5A region finals. In 18 years, he has never had a losing season.

“It breaks my heart,” said Clamon, who does not work for the county school district.

Clamon led the Bulls to a 15-11 record last season. Bloomingdale lost to Alonso in the district tournament semifinals. He said his decision to return for the 2012 season was to share the end of the prep careers for seven seniors.

“My goal was to get every kid a scholarship that wanted one,” he said.

Clamon said he will continue to coach the school’s fall team (offseason), which has four games remaining.

Here is a Facebook page petitioning for Clamon’s reinstatement page