Beck To Lead Lady Indians
Longtime Vidalia Assistant Softball Coach Ben Beck has been named the new Head Coach of The Lady Indians. The announcement comes on the heels of 16-year Head Coach Brad Thompson's resignation, who resigned Monday citing personal reasons. Beck, who has been the Vidalia Assistant Coach since 2011, is a 1996 graduate of Vidalia High School and has been part of a team that has made four trips to the GHSA Final 4, where the Lady Indians finished as Runner-up twice. Beck has also been named the Region Assistant Coach of the Year four times and was the AA State Assistant Coach of the Year in 2015. Beck, who was a member of Vidalia's firstever Baseball State Championship in 1995, says that he is honored to have a chance to be the Head Coach of such a great program. 'It's an honor to take over one of the preeminent softball programs in the state. It's a program that enjoyed a lot of success in the slow pitch days under Coach 'Chunk' Reid. Then, Coach Brad Thompson helped build the fastpitch program into one that I believe is unrivaled south of Macon. It's my hope that I can continue their success and build on the well-deserved respect that this program has garnered.'
Vidalia High School Principal John Sharpe said the decision to name Beck was easy. 'Coach Beck has been a dedicated teacher and coach. He is beloved by his students, players, and their parents. He knows our players, the expected work ethic, and he understands the expectations we have for our program. He is currently selecting his staff, and I am confident he will continue to have our softball program among the elite programs in the state.'
Indian Athletic Director Tommy Dalley echoed Sharpe's sentiments, 'We are excited about this opportunity for our softball team moving forward. Coach Beck brings stability to the program. He has built tremendous relationships with these young ladies, which will enable him to continue to help them reach their potential. I feel strongly that Coach Beck has the ability to lead our softball program in a positive manner and continue its high level of excellence.'
