Coach couple immortalized in ‘Nash Center’

Posted by Krista Allen | Jan 29, 2015 | Basketball, Community |

Monument Valley High’s Student Activity Center (SAC) was renamed to “The Nash Center” on Saturday to pay tribute to longtime coaches and power couple, Robert and Lucinda Nash. Thanks to the Kayenta Township, the Nash title was stenciled on the gym’s floor earlier this month. (Times photo – Krista Allen)

KAYENTA, Ariz.

They’re two of the most prominent figures in the athletic department at Monument Valley High. They’re titans of Native sports history who always had a fine sense of sportsmanship and flair when they were on the court, making their mark among those considered star quality.

The goal for most in their profession is to make a lasting impression. And there’s no denying that the power couple did just that.

Robert and Lucinda Nash have been athletic coaches and educators in Mustang Country for nearly 41 years. And now, they have a gymnasium named after them.

On Saturday, the 27-year-old Student Activity Center (SAC) was renamed “The Nash Center” to pay tribute to the unflinching coaches who’ve left it with a legacy of class and style.

Constructed in 1988, the Student Activity Center (SAC) was home to “rez ball,” making an influence on several sports facilities such as Tuba City’s Warrior Pavilion and Chinle’s Wildcat Den. On Saturday, the old SAC was renamed to “The Nash Center” to pay tribute to Robert and Lucinda Nash. (Times photo – Krista Allen)

MVHS athletic director Jacob Holiday says the new name has been talked about for a couple of years.

“It’s something that’s long overdue,” he said. “And we (the athletic department) felt like the time was now to pay tribute to and to make a change. Both of them together — very, very deserving of this honor.”