The Buzz
Hurricanes need new basketball coach.
By IZZY GOULD
Published August 2, 2007
Hurricanes need new basketball coach
SPRING HILL - Bishop McLaughlin is looking for a new basketball coach.
Steve Matesich bolted to Jesuit, his alma mater, where a similar job within the school offered a pay increase. He'll also be closer to his son, who attends the school, and will help out with the basketball team.
Athletic director Mike Zelenka is busy searching for a replacement. He has a few interviews lined up and expects to find a new coach by month's end.
"We've opened it up and we have a few leads," Zelenka said. "Steve has helped as well and was more than willing to give us some names."
Matesich led the Hurricanes to a 15-10 record last season and seemed optimistic about the team's chances this coming season with just two seniors leaving.
Bishop McLaughlin fell 58-24 to Leesburg First Academy in the Class A, District 6 semifinal.
"I thought the program was going in the right direction," Zelenka said. "We had an outstanding season last year as far as being a competitive team. (Matesich) has laid a good foundation."
Light 'em up
The lights surrounding Bishop McLaughlin's football field are up and ready for testing. Zelenka said he expects all five home games to be played at 7:30 p.m.
The lights will be tested later this week with the first home night game slated for Sept. 7 at 7:30 against Santa Fe Catholic.
Zelenka said he expects the school to put in additional seating for the anticipated influx of fans due to the later kickoff.
Zelenka hasn't seen the lights on personally but has talked to a few folks who have.
"I hear they're pretty darn bright," he said.
Looking for a game
Dave Wilson has found one of his first tasks as Wiregrass Ranch athletic director to be pretty tough.
Wiregrass thought it had a game scheduled Sept. 28 with Hernando, but later found out Hernando took an earlier game on the schedule with Hudson.
Wilson attributes part of the breakdown in communication with the change in athletic directors at both schools and a new coach at Hernando.
The miscommunication left Wiregrass with nine games and it's still searching for a 10th.
"I don't know the details on how it came about," Wilson said. "I don't think it was anyone's fault."
Wiregrass has a pair of open dates Sept. 28 and Oct. 12.
A possible opponent could be Academy at the Lakes. The FHSAA's Web site showed a classified advertisement posted by AATL athletic director Mark Arbet in search of a game Sept. 28 or Oct. 5. Arbet did not return a call seeking comment and it was unclear if AATL had found an opponent.
Izzy Gould can be reached at izzygould@gmail.com or (727) 580-5315.