Fall From Grace

It was once said, with great enthusiasm, that Ryan Djernes would change the game of Softball forever.  Right out of college, Ryan was viewed by many as godsend, and a sign of great changes to come. Unfortunately, in his short career, it doesn't look as if  Ryan will ever live up to any of the hype decreed in the media.  His coaching career has been plagued with disappointment.  In just 3 seasons, he has coached for 3 different teams, all of which posted losing records.  In his last, and most current coaching opportunity, Ryan fell to a new low, as he was asked to coach a Co-ed team.  Ryan accepted the job, and in 6 games, his team has yet to win a game.  It is becoming clear, that with a team of Men or Women, Djernes just doesn't have the stuff to Coach in this game.  

In his first season with the J's, Ryan struggled through his rookie year.  His passion to share in the personal lives of his players, only lead to his teams consistent failure.  He asked his players, "Where do you want to play today?" and without question, he would meet their requests. He lived without a lineup, stating that "Everyone should have a chance to bat cleanup." Although these strategies made some players adore him, they also brewed a internal hatred for Ryan, amongst the premier players.  It was this hatred, that eventually forced Ryan out as the Soft J's coach in early 2007.

His second season was held in Scottsdale, AZ.  To this day, there is little information that can be found, as to the possible success or failure of this team.  We do know, that the team, named Amateur Hour, posted a loosing record (5-7), which was now becoming a staple of any team coached by Djernes.  In addition to the teams loosing record, they were further embarrassed by their lack of style.  The team wore solid Pink shirts, with no logo at all.  Some of the older members of the J's were heard saying "At least Ryan used to care about looking good...now he has really thrown in the towel."

Currently, as stated above, Ryan moved to San Francisco, CA.  Maybe a change of scenery would be all Coach Djernes needed to catapult his career.  To start the season out, Ryan made, what looked to be, his smartest coaching move to date.  Ryan brought Soft J's MVP 08, Sean Djernes, up for a game.  It was hailed as a "no-brainer," but the outcome would prove otherwise.  Sean made 6 errors and went 1 for 3, and Ryan's team lost their first game of the season.  The season was young, and there was still hope.  Unfortunately, with a Co-ed team, Ryan can hardly manage to get 9 players out on the field.  One female was quoted saying, "play for Ryan? I think I have a hair appointment today."  Ironically, she missed two additional games with an Eyebrow Appointment and a "Petty."  The lack of commitment, and apparent poor coaching, has lead Ryan's team to an 0-6 record. (The worst in the league)  Although Ryan's team continues to lose, they are optimistic about their future, as Bill Henry stated, "Every team makes the playoffs right?"  It is this type of attitude, that continues to baffle other coaches around the league.  How do Ryan's teams continue to perform so badly on the field, yet still keep spirits high?

It is undeniable that Ryan has yet to find his nitch in the Softball world.  His coaching style is passive and somewhat unconventional.  His bond with his players is unmatched, but it is obvious, that it doesn't translate to wins on the diamond.  One thing does seem certain, no matter where he is, or who he has with him, Ryan Djernes will try and coach.  The question remains, can he coach, and win?