For the second consecutive year, Warrenton High School finds itself searching for someone to lead the varsity softball and boys basketball teams. After just one year in the district, Shannon Jeffrey has announced he will be leaving to pursue a coaching opportunity at Southern Boone in Ashland. He says the change didn't become a definite until a few days before school dismissed for the summer, and Jeffrey turned in his resignation on May 27. His departure leaves a pair of crucial coaching positions open. Warrenton Activities Director Craig Frazier says candidates are already being interviewed and that a decision could be made as early as next week. "We hope to be able to take a name to the school board by its next meeting, which is Monday," said Frazier. "The (late timing) of the opening caused us not to have as many candidates, but we have had some good ones." Jeffrey says his decision to leave centered around financial concerns and closeness to his family. The district had been unable to provide him with a full-time teaching salary, which had presented some financial hardship. Jeffrey will be leaving his job as the academic reassignment instructor to teach physical education at Southern Boone. Additionally, Jeffrey desired to be closer to where his son attends school, and the new position offered that opportunity. "A little more security in my bank account and getting closer to my son were the two main factors," said Jeffrey. "I appreciate the offer they gave me, and I had a good year here." During just one year in the district, Jeffrey was instrumental in guiding the Warrenton softball team to its first district title since 1992. The Warriors finished 16-14, advancing to the sectional round of the MSHSAA playoffs. "Winning the district championship for the first time in 10 years was a lot of fun," said Jeffrey. "Overall, it was great because the kids were wonderful and the support of the parents was there." Jeffrey also assumed the head coaching role for the boys basketball team, which finished the year 5-18. While he says the team wasn't satisfied with its record, he did admire the effort put forth by his players. "We never did get every aspect our game together on the same night," said Jeffrey. "The kids worked hard, and I'm proud of them." Jeffrey says he was able to establish strong relationships with his players over his first year and that complicated the thought of leaving. "The hardest part about being a coach is what you have to leave behind," said Jeffrey. "I appreciate the kids and everything they did for me." Frazier complimented the job Jeffrey did in reviving the softball program and says he would have liked to see where the basketball team could have gone given a few more seasons. "He got the softball program back on the right track to winning ways," said Frazier. "I would like to have seen what he could do with the basketball team had he stayed a little longer." Frazier adds that Eric Murphy has been hired to fill one of the high school's assistant football vacancies, while another one remains open. Murphy moves up from coaching in the middle school ranks. Additionally, Joe Klostermann had left his role as assistant basketball coach to assist with the track program. The district is currently seeking a varsity boys basketball assistant.