[OutlawJoseyWales]

I think the Pikeville administration has to be very careful with this next hire. While I do believe a statewide search should definitely be done....I also think that ultimately the decision will have some type of local flavor.

Programs such as Pikeville and Belfry....essentially the two biggest football programs east of Bell Co...have to be careful to find coaches who are not only capable of leading the program...but have a finite understanding of the importance and tradition the programs have in their respective communities and the surrounding areas. In many ways, Football is a way of life for kids in Pikeville and Belfry. Whoever you introduce as the new coach.....they MUST UNDERSTAND AND EMBRACE THAT TRADITION.

I still say Shawn Hager would be a fabulous choice for Pikeville. Jim Matney would be another great hire. Not sure he would leave Johnson Central....but he would certainly energize the fan base in Pikeville.