Austin Jones looking to continue the Scotties’ MVL-Big dominance
By: Sam Nolan
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DRESDEN, Ohio (WOUB) — Tri-Valley has seen no shortage of success over the past few seasons. An undefeated MVL-Big campaign last year brought them a third conference title in a row. Now, with change on the horizon, how will the Scotties adapt and continue their storied dominance?
Tri-Valley announced the hiring of Head Coach Austin Jones on Jan. 9. Jones, an alumnus of the school, was the Offensive Coordinator/Running Backs Coach at the time of the hiring.
“It’s obviously been a life dream for me. Did I think it was something that would happen?” said Jones. “Honestly, I don’t know. With Coach West there, obviously Coach Wright, I thought those guys would be here forever.”
Coach Cameron West stepped down from the position in order to become a full-time principal at Tri-Valley. This change came after last season, leaving the vacated spot and a prime opportunity for Jones.
His knowledge for Tri-Valley football and being part of the current staff made the decision easy, and a choice that players could get on board with.
“I love Coach Jones. He’s a great guy, an even better coach… he’s been on the staff, so it was pretty seamless I’d say,” said Luca Gargasz, Senior Wide Receiver.
Coach Jones built a strong bond with reigning MVL-Big Player of the Year Leevi Wade while he served as his Running Back Coach this past season. Jones is one of the best to ever play the position at Tri-Valley, which is something Wade hopes to become himself.
“Coming to practice and seeing the guy that did it before you and helped build the program, it makes you want to build the program even more,” said Wade.
Sometimes, a coaching change can be hard. This doesn’t seem to be the case in Dresden, where the Scotties could look to defend the MVL-Big title for the fourth year in a row.