CHARMCO- In somewhat surprising news, Greenbrier West softball coach Tony Hinkle made an announcement that he has decided to resign as the leader of the Lady Cavalier program after an 8-year run.
Hinkle led the Cavs to two state tournaments (2019, 2023) during his tenure and was loved by his players for his dedication to them and his team.
Although the resignation still isn’t official, Hinkle confirmed that it is inevitable.
I don’t know when that will be, but it is coming,” Hinkle said when asked about the official announcement.
As for the reasons for giving up something he has done and loved a total of 55 years, Hinkle cited family time and letting someone younger keep the softball team rolling.
“I feel like I have given it my all and I think it’s time someone younger to take it over,” he stated.
“It’s not an easy decision, but one I knew I would eventually have to make,” he added.
Hinkle never planned to coach as long as he did, but there was always someone or something that made him keep coming back year after year.
“I never planned to do this for this many years, but it never fails that every Spring there is always a freshman that shows up and I think to myself ‘ I want to see this girl through to her senior year because she has a chance to be special.’ It is such a good thing to see these young ladies work to get better and to see them succeed,” Hinkle explained.
Hinkle thanked many for the opportunity to lead the West program.
“I thank God that he has given me the health and the means to do this for so many years. I thank my wife and my family for allowing me the time away from them to do something that I love. Thanks to Greenbrier West High School for giving me the opportunity to be a part of the Cavalier family for the past eight years. Thanks to the community, parents, and players who have been so supportive since I have been here,” Hinkle said thankfully.
