Allen High School to Rename Gym Lobby to “Doug Snyder’s Way”
Posted on 12/07/2021
ALLENTOWN, PA — The Allentown School District is excited to announce that at the December 6 board meeting, the board unanimously approved naming of the gym entry way at William Allen High School, to “Doug Snyder’s Way” in honor of long-time faithful Allentown educator, basketball coach, and mentor, Doug Snyder.
Coach Snyder is known for the big wins on the basketball court, but more importantly, he is known for being the great leader at William Allen High School that staff and student athletes frequently leaned on. Coach Snyder led with respect and compassion, and made everyone he came across feel important while reminding them of their potential to be great.
“People were drawn to Coach Snyder’s leadership. That leadership doesn’t happen by accident. When you lead with respect and compassion the way he did each and every day, people will follow your lead,” said Randy Atiyeh, Allen HS Athletic Director. “No matter who they were, Coach made everyone feel important and reminded them of their potential to be great. That is Coach Snyder. That is ‘Doug Snyder’s Way.'”
During his 23 year career in ASD, Coach Snyder amassed an impressive record including winning 364 games with the Canaries, four League Titles and four District XI championships. His coaching on and off the court allowed several canaries to pursue their passion beyond high school, sending several of his student athletes to play at the NCAA and professional level.
In order to rename the space, the school formed a committee of stakeholders to discuss proposed names for the gym lobby who started the process at the start of the school year. A community survey was shared out to attract recommendations from all stakeholders within the Allentown School District.
The school and district are thankful to the William Allen Varsity A Booster Club, who graciously and generously agreed to purchase the dedication plaque. In partnership with the City of Allentown, a “Doug Snyder’s Way” street sign will be placed at 18th and Turner in front of the gym entrance. A formal unveiling of the plaque and street sign will take place on January 4 at 3PM in the lobby and Coach Snyder will be recognized during a pregame ceremony of the Boys Basketball game also on January 4th, at 7PM.