FOOTBALL: Goldsboro enters application review phase

By Rudy Coggins
Published in Sports on April 5, 2017 9:57 AM

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rcoggins@newsargus.com

Goldsboro has completed the opening phase in its search for a new head varsity football coach.

Phase two is underway.

"Sorting out applications," said Dean Sauls, assistant superintendent of Wayne County Public Schools.

"(We) will set up interviews after spring break. (We) hope to announce by mid-May."

The vacancy occurred in early January when Bennett Johnson -- the sixth head coach in program history since 1959 -- stepped down after three seasons. He compiled a 7-26 record.

Johnson and the school administration parted on amicable terms.

"The school and district appreciate the hard work and dedication that Coach Johnson has given to the students and staff at Goldsboro High, and as the (head) varsity football coach the past three seasons," Sauls said in a statement after Johnson's resignation.

"Our priority is to recruit a dynamic teacher/coach that has the skills and experience to motivate students to excel both in the classroom and on the field. We will also be looking for someone who has experience teaching in 'turn around' schools."

WCPS officials did not post the opening with the N.C. High School Athletic Association until March.

Sauls will steer the search committee during the interview process. He did not elaborate on the applicants.

Spring football practice begins in May.

Goldsboro has missed the playoffs each of the past four seasons. Before then, the Cougars racked up 57 victories that included four conference championships -- Eastern Plains 2-A (2007), Carolina 1-A (2009, 2010, 2012) -- and an appearance in the 2009 eastern regional championship.

That success occurred over a six-year period.