By Kyle LoJacono
There are 10 candidates will have a chance to be the fourth coach in Land O’ Lakes High football history, and one applicant will soon join the faculty.
Brian Wachtel was Mitchell High’s coach the last two years, compiling a 13-7 record, but was dismissed from the position at year’s end. He was originally hired with the Mustangs in 2008 by current Land O’ Lakes principal Ric Mellin.
Additionally, Pasco County School District spokeswoman Summer Romagnoli confirmed Wachtel is joining the Gators staff Jan. 24 as a varying exceptionalities instructor, or someone who teaches special needs students. He had the same job at Mitchell.
Other candidates submitted by Mellin include:
–Luke Chichetto; former University of South Florida’s strength coach from 2003-2004 and current strength coach in the Texas Rangers’ minor league system.
–Brian Colding; former Wesley Chapel High and current Pasco High assistant.
–Ryan Gallogly; coach at Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory in Indianapolis since 2007.
–Mark Kantor; coached Gaither High’s program the last nine years. Stepped down from the program following last season.
–Joe Midulla; former Jefferson High and current Alonso High defensive coordinator.
–Stan Robertson; no information provided.
–William Schmitz; former Jesuit head coach from 2003-2004.
–Tim Stevens; coached River Ridge High the last five years. Was dismissed from the program following last season.
–Joshua Weber; current assistant at Alonso High and teacher at Farnell Middle.
The Gators job became vacant after Matt Kitchie, a physical education teacher, was informed before the winter break he would not be rejoining the program. Former cheerleading coach Celisa Cook is also not returning next year, but both remain as teachers.
Kitchie had a 17-3 record leading Land O’ Lakes the last two seasons, but was suspended for the squad’s last two contests including the first round of the playoffs after an off the field incident involving a student. Former defensive coordinator Jason Hatcher and Cook were also suspended for those contests for the same incident. Senior quarterback Stephen Weatherford was also absent as well.
Mellin has said he wants a coach in place well before the start of spring workouts in May, but gave no further timetable.
