April 14, 2025

Twin Falls School District

201 Main Ave. W.

Twin Falls, ID 83301

Dear Twin Falls School District Administration,

I hope this letter finds you well. We are writing as concerned parents and members of the Twin Falls School District and Community regarding the current structure of our athletic program at O'Leary Middle School. While we deeply appreciate the dedication and years of service that Rocky Eller has given to our students, we respectfully ask the school district to reconsider the athletic director's ability to serve both as the director of athletics and a coach in multiple capacities.

We recognize the significant contributions Rocky has made over the years, including his passion for sports and the development of our student-athletes. His commitment to the district is certainly commendable, and we appreciate his years of service. However, there are several factors we believe should be considered in making a decision for the benefit of the athletes, the community, and the overall direction of the program.

First, we acknowledge that the role of athletic director and coach in multiple sports can create significant strain, particularly given the rising concerns over his public health issues and the increasing demands of maintaining high standards for student-athletes. Balancing these multiple roles, especially in light of the physical and emotional toll that such responsibilities can impose, may limit the director’s ability to effectively manage both the administrative duties of overseeing the entire athletics program and the specific needs of coaching teams.

Additionally, it has come to our attention that Rocky employs family members as coaches in various athletic programs. While family involvement is an important aspect of community, this arrangement could raise concerns regarding transparency, fairness, and the overall management of the teams. As parents, we are hopeful that a more diverse set of coaching perspectives can be brought into the programs to ensure the best outcomes for all student-athletes.

Lastly, we believe it is essential for the athletic program to prioritize current safety standards, competitive readiness, and the preparation of our student-athletes for high school athletics. Our students deserve a well-rounded and focused experience, one that allows them to thrive in an environment that adheres to modern standards of competition and safety. We believe that rethinking the structure of our athletics program and ensuring the leadership roles are appropriately balanced will better serve both our student-athletes and our community.

With all due respect, we ask that the district reconsider the current structure of the athletic program and explore the possibility of separating the roles of athletic director and coach. This would allow the district to provide a more focused, safe, and competitive experience for our student-athletes, one that aligns with current best practices in school sports.

Thank you for considering our concerns. We trust that the district will act in the best interests of our students, ensuring they have the opportunity to succeed, stay safe, and be well-prepared for future athletic endeavors. We look forward to your response and to the continued success of our athletic programs.