Springfield High meeting outlines 10 characteristics and traits f

SPRINGFIELD — A group of 30 people gathered at Springfield High School on Tuesday, Sept. 15, to discuss the characteristics and traits they want to see in the Wildcats’ next boys basketball coach.

The group included former North head coach Don Henderson and South graduate and basketball star Thomas Stephens. The session was moderated by Dr. David Estrop, the district superintendent, and Dr. Chris Shaffer, Springfield’s campus director.

The suggestions ranged from “knowledge of the game” to “effective communicator at all levels.”

After two brainstorming sessions 10 traits were agreed upon and will be used when a nine-person committee begins interviews today. “Knowledge of the game” made it. The communicator trait did not, but a similar one was used.

Other traits included:

• Passion for academics as well as athletics.

• Great communication skills with stakeholders and networks (includes parents, kids and fans).

• Coaching experience and life coach who mentors and develops kids.

• Become an active and visible part of the community.

• Understands diversity.

• Ability to motivate.

• Personal integrity, ethics and honesty.

• Disciplinarian, fair to all, respect (for others).

• Develops and hires a strong staff.

“We had a diverse group with a lot of positive feedback,” Springfield High School Athletic Director Mark Stoll said. “I think we have a good direction and a good idea of what the community desires in the next head coach.”

The district hopes to have a recommendation for the position by Sept. 22.

Former coach Bill Slagle resigned in July. Assistant coaches Mike Schilling and Cory Bacon, already under contract for this season, began running open gym sessions on Monday.

Applicants for Springfield High School boys basketball head coach

Larry Allen, former Hamilton head coach

Cory Bacon, Springfield assistant

Henry Benton Jr., Meadowdale assistant

Neal Browning, Springfield assistant

William Carter, Thomas Jefferson (Mo.) head coach

Ryan Frost, Mt. Vernon Nazarene assistant

Larry Ham, former Trotwood-Madison and South head coach

Torrence Hill, Xenia girls coach

Darnell Hoskins, Chaminade Julienne assistant

Todd Huffman, former University of Dubuque women's coach

Maurice James, Columbus FCI Academy head coach