By Derrick Forsythe, Record Sports Editor
Warrenton High School has announced that Superintendent Jim Chandler will coach the varsity boys basketball team during the 2013-14 season. He becomes the Warriors’ fourth coach in five seasons, replacing Trevor Hibbs, who submitted his resignation earlier this month. Hibbs will remain in the district as the varsity softball coach. Newly hired activities director Bobby Spoonster says the search process was hindered by the late timing of the opening. “When you’re trying to fill a position this late in the game with just one teaching opening, it’s a challenge,” explained Spoonster, who notes the district had just one in-house candidate. Chandler is expected to hold the title on an interim basis, with the job being reopened for candidacy next March. “It’s not the most ideal situation,” Spoonster acknowledged. “We understand that. This isn’t something any of us envisioned, but it’s what we felt moving forward was in the best interest of the program.” With basketball camps beginning this week, Spoonster says it was imperative to get someone in place promptly. “I thought the kids deserved to have a head coach in place before the school year was out,” said Spoonster. “It’s someone who has a quality background in his career.” Chandler, who was chosen to oversee the district in March, has 11 years of head coaching experience. His most recent role was in the Camdenton School District, with previous stints at Moberly, Owensville, Putnam County and Rich Hill. “We needed to have somebody in place, who could step forward and lead now,” said Chandler. “I’m not afraid to put in the hours and effort.” a career record of 203-100 and two Final Four appearances to his credit, he felt qualified. “As superintendent, you have to lead by example,” Chandler added. But he is quick to reassure his duties on the sidelines will not disrupt daily operations at the district office. He will also coach without accepting the usual stipend. “The bottom line is I’m the superintendent, and that’s my priority,” assured Chandler. “Our goal would be trying to get the younger coaches to where they are ready to take over the program.” Chandler is a 1986 graduate of Warrenton High School and also played college basketball for Blackburn College.
Warrenton Superintendent Jim Chandler will coach the varsity boys basketball team on an interim basis in 2013-14.
Submitted Photo.
