Wharton's Wood ponders new job

The former Buccaneers linebacker wants to coach at the college or pro level.

By JOEL POILEY
© St. Petersburg Times
published May 23, 2002

TAMPA -- Wharton coach Richard Wood has always told his team that if the right opportunity presented itself, he would leave.

This spring, speculation has grown after Wood confirmed he is looking for a new job. But he expects to coach the Wildcats this fall and check his options after that.

Having coached professionally as a defensive assistant for the Buccaneers from 1991-93, and as a head coach in Holland in 1994 and Germany in 1997, Wood would like to teach linebackers at the college or pro level.

"The kids know what's going on," said Wood, a hard-hitting linebacker known as "Batman" during his 10-year professional career, nine with the Bucs (1976-84). "I've always been up front with them.

"I'd like to get back to the pro ranks. I know I can be good at what I do, which would be coaching linebackers. From there, I'd like to be a defensive coordinator and eventually a head coach. But I need a chance."

Wood replaced Dan Acosta in 1999, Wharton's second season, and has a 9-29 record. The Wildcats had their best season in 2001 after starting 3-0 before finishing 4-6. Wood said he is pleased with the progress of the program entering its sixth year.

"This isn't an easy situation," Wood said. "New school, kids, grades, no middle school football, not the best of talent in a new community. It's been a tremendous challenge. But I'm fortunate to have had the players I've had here and we've worked hard to bring these guys up to a competitive level."

Wharton athletic director Lanness Robinson said he hasn't spoken with Wood officially, but he knows of Wood's ambitions to coach at higher levels.

"I know he's considered it before," Robinson said. "Maybe now he feels the time is right. We're real pleased with the consistency of the coaching staff and with the job they've done.

"We just lost (offensive coordinator) Jarrett Laws to Freedom. But that's always a compliment when other people want your assistants."

Wood said he has not closed the door on returning to Wharton after this season and has a head coaching offer in Europe, but prefers not going overseas again.

"We'll see what happens. I'm not sure right now," said Wood, Wharton's security officer. "I feel like the program has taken off and become competitive in (Class) 5A.

"I just need to better my situation, whether it is in college or the pros. But that fraternity is hard to crack. You still have to know somebody to get in."