Editor:

Kudos to The Herald for your editorial (“LU hoops at a crossroads,” Friday, April 1).”

I have a long history with Longwood, as a graduate, almost 30 years (August 1985-January 2015) as an employee who fundraised for the entire university, to include athletics.

My wife and I are major donors to our alma mater.

I watched with pride as the Lancers transitioned from Division III to Division II and now Division I.

I was the PA announcer for many years for men’s basketball, and even did some radio broadcasts.

Through those many years, there were some bumps and bruises, but nothing like I and others have witnessed during the past three years under head coach Jason Gee.

Arrests and suspensions have been rampant, as you pointed out in your editorial.

In addition, there have been massive player defections with 14 players leaving or transferring, according to the university’s athletics website. In addition, at least six assistant coaches have departed Longwood during Gee’s tenure, according to the website.

These are alarming numbers. Alarming enough, in my opinion, to ask for Gee’s resignation.

Another more alarming number, that many are unaware of, is the length of Gee’s contract. He was given a six-year contract signed by President W. Taylor Reveley IV and Longwood Athletics Director Troy Austin. A contract weighted heavily in a coach’s favor who had no proven track record.

You mentioned Gee being held accountable in your editorial. Seems to this Lancer both the president and AD also need to be accountable to Longwood!

Franklin Grant

Farmville