Former Ypsilanti High School Coach Dave Poole's use of the N-word signals deeper problems within our community.

Exactly "who" is it that is calling the Ypsi kids derogatory names? Is it the Willow Run School district or the Ann Arbor, Chelsea, and Saline School districts. I think it’s the latter. As unconscious as it was, Coach Poole, to his credit was only telling the truth as it was told to him. Don't kill the messenger, kill the message!

Coach Poole's comfort level in using the word is troubling considering that most white men his age view it as taboo. This is normally the case unless you've become anesthetized to it. Players used the -n- word freely during Coach Poole's time as a coach.

Lots of people, including myself have long advocated a stronger organic connection between the staff and its players. Having qualified coaches who are alumni and products of the same environment that many of the kids are from is instrumental in building the type of relationships needed to change negative behavior.

There has always been a qualified pool to pull from but YHS has historically ignored our tremendous contributions and more importantly our collective wisdom.

Our systems are failing us; the football field may be the catelyst to bring about change to an entire community.

Allow coaches whose impact would be felt immediately to make the difference.

Chester Beasley Ypsilanti