By Jarra Gojolo — Content Editor
San Jose State head softball coach Peter Turner will not be returning, according to sources close to the team.
Turner — whose contract expired on May 31 — was the winningest coach in program history, compiling a 413-329 record in his 14 seasons at SJSU.
On Friday morning Turner notified players through text he wasn’t going to be renewed, followed by an email sent to the players from softball supervisor Mike Waller.
“I’m writing to let you know that Pete Turner will no longer be the head softball coach at San Jose State … We will also be making an announcement soon regarding an interim head coach. I will begin an immediate national search and we will be expeditious in naming a new head coach,” the email reads.
Turner leaves the Spartans during one of the most successful periods in Spartan softball history.
Since his hiring in 2007 from San Joaquin Delta College, Turner has won two coach of the year awards and led the Spartans to two NCAA tournament appearances.
Despite the success, there has been growing tension between the Turners and the athletic department.
Peter Turner and his son, assistant coach Chase Turner, were both subject to a Title IX investigation from mid-2018 to January 2019. Chase Turner was accused of sexual harassment in the investigation, while Peter was alleged to favor white players for playing time.
The coaching change also complicates the futures of the Spartans’ four seniors. With COVID-19 cancelling the 2020 season and giving seniors the option to return, Turner’s departure may tip the scales against a 2021 return.
Some players aren’t taking the news well.
Despite no longer being head coach, Peter Turner won’t officially be let go until Sept. 1, according to SJSU’s announcement. Chase Turner will be the interim head coach “until the next head coach is appointed,” as the Spartans have historic shoes to fill in the next few month.
The Spear will continue to provide updates to this story as more information becomes available.
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