Window Rock coach resigns amid threats after Phoenix-area trip incident

WINDOW ROCK

The fallout from an incident during an overnight road trip to the Phoenix area earlier this year has led to the resignation of Window Rock boys basketball coach Ashley Mitchell.

On Tuesday afternoon, Mitchell posted on Facebook that she was leaving the Window Rock program. The post was later deleted.

“After careful consideration, I have made the decision to resign from my role with the Window Rock High boys’ basketball program,” Mitchell stated. “This decision was not made lightly. However, the continued rumors, threats, and personal physical attacks have created an unsafe environment for my family and my son. No role or position is worth compromising our safety.”

Mitchell took over the Scouts boys basketball program three years ago and coached the Fighting Scouts to a 21-45 overall record. This season, Window Rock entered Tuesday night’s game with Ganado at 6-7.

“As a former player and alumna of Window Rock High School, my goal in returning as a coach over the last few seasons was to give back to our community and youth through the sport of basketball and volleyball that shaped my growth and experiences.”

Trip incident, disciplinary action

The resignation follows disciplinary action tied to an incident during the Epic Tourneys New Year’s Classic, held Jan. 2-3 in the Phoenix area. On Saturday, the Scouts forfeited their varsity boys game against the Page Sand Devils because of the measures placed on the team. Several players and staff member(s) were disciplined in connection with the trip.

Window Rock finished the two-day tournament with a third-place showing at Tempe Prep Gym, capped by a 63-62 win over Dishchii’bikoh. Afterward, several players reportedly left the hotel property where the team was staying without adult supervision. It is unknown how many players were involved, but according to MaxPreps.com and AZPreps365.com, the Window Rock varsity boys roster was removed from both websites.

“The student-athletes admitted to their faults about leaving the premises without supervision and without notifying the coaching staff, after each bed checks,” Mitchell said. “Thankfully, no one was injured, and no alcohol or drugs were involved.

“As a coach, I take the responsibility of student safety seriously and make every effort to prevent situations like this. I have consistently dedicated my time, energy, and care building a program that focuses on the well-being of our players.”

Mitchell said the incident has generated intense public reaction, including what she described as misinformation circulating in the community.

“I am aware of the discussions circulating on social media regarding this matter,” she said. “I ask that our community remain factual, respectful, and mindful of the individuals involved, particularly the student-athletes. Misinformation and speculation only deepen harm and do not reflect the full scope of the situation.”

District response still pending

The Window Rock Unified School District has yet to release a statement regarding the incident or the disciplinary measures that were carried out. On Saturday, athletic director Nate Dahozy confirmed with the Navajo Times that the status of the Scouts varsity boys basketball program remains uncertain while the process continues.

“We are going through the process of disciplinary actions with our varsity boys basketball team,” Dahozy said. “Everything is still ongoing. We’re still getting statements, and until the investigation is complete, then we might put out a statement.”

The Navajo Times left messages with Dan Horsley, the interim superintendent for WRUSD and the principal for WRHS, on Monday and Tuesday seeking comment, but he did not return calls for this story.

Because of privacy laws, Dahozy said he could not confirm how many players were involved. He also declined to comment on Mitchell’s resignation.

Dahozy said the district did not learn what happened until the team returned to campus.

“That is pretty much what I can tell you,” Dahozy said.

As of Saturday, Dahozy said suspensions were being handled by school administrators.

“Right now, it’s at the administrator level,” he said when asked whether the school board is involved.

Dahozy added that suspended players can appeal decisions on whether they may rejoin the varsity team.

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