Eric Calland, a 2003 graduate of Westerville South and football assistant coach at the school since 2015, is set to take over the program.
Pending school board approval, Calland will succeed Matthew Christ, who stepped down after seven seasons .
"I have a passion for this school and this community," Calland said. "I love football and it's been a part of my life since the fourth grade, so this is a great opportunity to continue to help these kids achieve the things that they're capable of."
Calland was an assistant under Kyle Stout for two seasons and remained with South when Christ took over in 2017, serving most recently as defensive coordinator and linebackers coach.
South went 46-29 overall and 27-14 in OCC play under Christ, winning league titles in 2022 and 2020.
"Coach Christ has laid a tremendous foundation," Calland said. "He would say we've all built it together, but he did such a great job. That's made the transition easier, but also it's a huge part of keeping this thing rolling, trying to hold the line and doing what's right for these kids."
Calland was named the Ohio High School Football Coaches Association Region 10 Assistant Coach of the Year in 2022. He previously served as an assistant coach at Bellville Clear Fork and Worthington Kilbourne.
"Eric's coaching philosophy and experience are indicative of the path and vision we have for the Wildcat football program," athletic director Jeff Good said.
Calland was offered and accepted the position Wednesday. He informed South players Friday.
"It was pretty special to see their reaction," he said.
Calland, 38, is an AP psychology and Hope Squad suicide awareness teacher at South.
After playing defensive end for South, Calland went to play the same position at Capital. He and his wife, Laura, have three children, Bennett, 11; Mara, 9; and Hudson, 4.
"The timing is right with my family and wanting to do what's best for our team and for this school," Calland said.
This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Eric Calland named Westerville South High School football coach
