On the field, the Memphis Showboats have received a jolt today, as head coach Ken Whisenhunt has taken a leave of absence. The news was originally reported by the United Football League (UFL) on Monday, which stated that Whisenhunt left due to personal reasons. This news comes just days before the Showboats take on the Michigan Panthers in USFL’s championship game. Catch their opening match-up this Sunday at 12 p.m. ET, streaming live on ESPN!
Ken Whisenhunt, who was the UFL last fall, is a former NFL player and head coach. His decision to step away marks the second head coach replacement in the league as it gears up for the regular season. Equality D.C. Defenders’ head coach Reggie Barlow recently accepted a head coaching position at Tennessee State. This great news comes just shortly after his stint with the Defenders.
With Whisenhunt gone, Showboats offensive line coach Jim Turner will take over as interim head coach. The league couldn’t have been happier with Whisenhunt’s call, as it publicly lauded the familial values that are core to the Cardinals organization.
"We take pride in the UFL being a family first league and we respect Ken's decision to take a leave of absence for personal reasons at this time," said UFL president and CEO Russ Brandon.
Brandon also extended an open invitation for Whisenhunt's return.
"If and when Ken Whisenhunt is ready to return to the UFL family, we will welcome him with open arms."
The UFL just lost two head coaches in quick succession. This significant move unsurprisingly points to the realities and return dynamics of running a professional sports league. The league prepares to kick off their season. All eyes are going to be on how these changes will impact the quality of play.
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