Thunder settles with former coach/GM
August 5, 2006 - World Indoor Football League 2 (WIFL 2)
Daytona Beach Thunder News Release
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - The Daytona Beach Thunder reached a settlement with former Head Coach/General Manager Ervin Bryson over his contract, Owner/President Kevin McDonald announced today.
"The Thunder strives to set a standard in all aspects of its operation, especially in its financial obligations, all of which we've met." McDonald said. "There was a misunderstanding on Coach Bryson's behalf regarding the simple chronology of salary dispersal.
"The bottom line is that Ervin Bryson was paid in full for each of the 11 consecutive months in advance,'' McDonald added. "In June, he was told that his contract would not be renewed and and he chose not continue his duties."
The two sides met with a court-appointed mediator on August 4. Other issues, including a staggering $6,000 worth of missing equipment - well above the accepted level of attrition for a professional team - were discussed, but the main issue still revolved around payment dispersal.
"After an hour of futile discussion, Ervin Bryson still failed to comprehend his payment structure," McDonald said. "Rather than endure a colossal waste of time and energy for our staff and the judicial system, we offered a nominal sum for a quick resolution that would enable the Daytona Beach Thunder to remain focused on what lies ahead with a respectable, well-educated new coach (Former New York Giant and Tampa Bay Buc Leon Bright) and a new league (The World Indoor Football League).
"Fifty percent of our equipment is missing, but that is not the issue," McDonald said. "We took care of every obligation to Ervin Bryson and positioned him for success. He did not deliver on his potential as a coach and a general manager. It is now time to move forward."
Bryson coached the Thunder team to a 6-8 record in its inaugural season that included one forfeit victory and another over a fill-in travel team. The team did not qualify for post-season play. In four seasons as a head coach with four different franchises, he has compiled a 22-21 record (two wins via forfeit) with no playoff victories.
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World Indoor Football League 2 Stories from August 5, 2006
- Thunder settles with former coach/GM - Daytona Beach Thunder
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