Former Cloverdale coach lands back in coaching

For Karl Turk, basketball never left him.

Despite stepping away as head boys basketball coach at Cloverdale two years ago, Turk stayed around the game, watching as a spectator or broadcasting games for GIANT fm.

Once the season rolls around this winter, Turk will again be in gyms, however, this time he will be on the staff at Centennial High School in Illinois. 

“It feels great to be back in coaching. I had the chance to see the team as an observer at Seeger this past weekend of June 6. I was so thoroughly impressed with coaches Hutchison and Leonard, and it’s evident that Centennial program is grounded in high standards and X’s and O’s,” Turk told The Putnam County Post.

The veteran coach admits while he missed coaching, the time away allowed him to make great progress on his doctorate degree, as well as an opportunity to take a more global view of basketball with multiple perspectives.

It also gave him an opportunity to chase a personal and professional aspiration and that was become a broadcaster.

“I am so thankful to Giant fm for the opportunity to broadcast last season. Along with fulfilling a professional and personal aspiration, the opportunity presented an in depth look at many programs, including state champion Parke Heritage,” he said. 

However, leaving Cloverdale was never something Turk considered after a decade teaching Spanish and leading the JAG program. However, a cut in pay ushered in a change for Turk. 

“This pivot definitely wasn’t one I was seeking. I thoroughly enjoyed my 10 years in Cloverdale teaching Spanish and leading our JAG program. I was looking forward to my second season on Giant fm and beginning a program similar yet more Cloverdale framed in place of JAG, but late in the school year I learned that due to a number of factors, none reflecting my performance, I would be fiscally compensated $20,000 less. I chose to pursue a more fiscally lateral move at a place where I felt I could be influential and also continue to grow professionally. That place is Centennial,” Turk said.

He said when he looks back on his time with the Clovers, he does so fondly.

“The positive difference I feel I’ve been part of and the level at which the community took me in. As I’m packing boxes I’m looking at a People Magazine article, a Putnam County Citizen of the Year Award, a photo of a myself with the microphone from announcing at games, and a host of indelible memories,” he said.

His influence on Cloverdale students was evident by the outpouring of support that came when he announced he was leaving as students took to social media to share memories and say thank you.

“Education is such a cool field, in that, lessons I have learned and connections made from previous experiences informed the Cloverdale days, and Cloverdale will inform us at Centennial,” Turk said.

And he has a parting message for the students at Cloverdale. 

“My message is simple, go be great in all your endeavors, as I intend to be greater than ever. I won’t be a stranger, hope you keep up with me also,” Turk said.