Edgewood football coach ousted after 21 seasons

The Steve

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Career record: 152-78 (21 seasons, 1990-2010)

League championships: 13 (10 Mid-Miami League, 3 Fort Ancient Valley Conference)

10-win seasons: 5 (1998-2000, 2002-03)

Playoff appearances: 10 (1997-2003, 2006-08)

State semifinalist: 1999, 2003

State finalist: 2003

TRENTON — It’s the end of an era in Edgewood High School football history.

After 21 seasons as head coach, Steve Channell will not walk the Cougars’ sideline at Kumler Field anymore after not being offered a new one-year contract for the 2011-12 school year, according to a statement released Saturday from Edgewood City School officials.

The statement also confirmed first-year boys basketball coach Scott Mueller would not be retained.

“The leadership of the district decided a change was needed,” District Director of Athletics and Communication John Thomas said, adding that himself, superintendent Doug Lantz and Director of Personnel Patrick Cifuentes made up that district leadership.

“In regards to football, we appreciate Steve’s years of service in heading up our football program. We wish both Steve and Scott well in whatever lies ahead for them,” Thomas said.

Edgewood posted a 5-5 record this past football season, finishing 4-1 and in second place in the Fort Ancient Valley Conference Scarlet Division.

During the season, Channell earned his 150th career win. His overall record is 152-78, all with the Cougars.

“I have no comment at this time,” Channell said. “I will respond at a later date.”

Thomas referred back to the statement when asked what change was needed for a football coach with Channell’s background.

“This was not a snap decision, but it is time for a change,” Thomas said.

As for Mueller, he led the boys basketball team to a 4-17 mark in his one season.

“We thought things would work out better, but they didn’t,” Thomas said. “We wish Scott well.”

Thomas said the search for new coaches would begin immediately, although there is no deadline set for applications or hiring.

“Our goal is to find top quality coaches who will bring tremendous leadership to our program, school district and community,” Thomas said. “Hopefully we’ll get a good applicant pool for both positions and we’ll get the interview process going. We want to get someone in a timely manner, but we’re not going to rush.”