Gordon Lee coach Ed Clendenen is at home recovering from recent surgery in which he had a brain tumor removed.
Clendenen, who coaches volleyball and boys’ basketball and golf, was diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukemia two summers ago. In the process of going through scans, doctors discovered the tumor and have been monitoring it the last year and a half.
Clendenen said it finally grew to a point where it was putting pressure on his brain and causing extreme headaches. He said his reports have been good, but he’s not expected to return to school for a few weeks.
Janet O’Neal came from a basketball background but is in her fifth year as Clendenen’s assistant in volleyball. She’s coaching the team this season.
“He and I work great together,” O’Neal said. “Actually he’s been my mentor in volleyball. He’s really taught me the game.”