Pioneers Coach Accepts AFL Position
February 25, 2003 - arenafootball2 (af2)
Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Pioneers News Release
Wilkes-Barre, PA â The Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Pioneers announced today Head Coach Lary Kuharich has been offered, and has accepted, a coaching position with the Arena Football League's New York Dragons.
Kuharich, who was named Pioneers head coach in November, will become the one of the Dragons new assistants. New York fired its entire coaching staff Monday after starting the 2003 AFL season 0-4.
"This is what our league is all about, allowing coaches and players to reach the next level," said Pioneers President Greg Smith. "We knew the possibility of Lary returning to the AFL always existed. We would have liked to have him here for the 2003 season and we appreciate everything he did for our team. He made us better during his tenure in Wilkes-Barre, both because of his vast experience and the quality of the players he recruited."
"Now, we have one more person at the AFL level who knows what our organization is about and can help our players achieve their professional goals," added Smith.
"Greg Smith is the ultimate gentleman and as fine a team operator as I've ever known," said Kuharich. "GM Rick Sneed and the entire front office have been extremely supportive and passionate about our direction heading into the 2003 season. I'm very appreciative for the chance to be associated with the Pioneers. This opportunity with the Dragons literally came out of the blue yesterday afternoon," he added.
Wilkes-Barre/Scranton has already begun interviewing candidates to fill the head coaching vacancy. The team is also speaking to the assistants â defensive coordinator Dean Cokinos, line coach Joe DeMelfi, and offensive assistant Mark Arcure â regarding the head coaching opportunity.
"Even with Lary advancing, we still maintain one of the best coaching staffs in the af2," said General Manager Rick Sneed. "We're in a great position for 2003."
The coaching change will not affect Wilkes-Barre/Scranton's preseason agenda. The team begins training camp March 19th.
The Pioneers 2003 home opener will be Friday, April 11th against the Mohegan Wolves. Anyone interested in season, group, or individual tickets may call the Pioneers ticketing department at (570) 270-5811 or (570) 270-3848.
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