Rusk re-assigns Coach Mahaffey
Athletic program needs change in leadership, superintendent says
BY LELAND ACKER

Rusk Head Football Coach and Athletic Director Wayne Mahaffey has been re-assigned to another administrative position within the district, effective later this month, Dr. James Largent, Rusk ISD superintendent said.

"He will be working with students and administrators in the area of student services," he said "I have come to the conclusion that our athletic program is in need of a change in leadership at this time.

"This was not a decision made in haste or without much consideration. For several months now, Coach Mahaffey has been aware that changes would be made."

Coach Mahaffey was hired prior to the 1999 season. He served as head football coach for nine seasons, longer than any other coach in Rusk High School history.

Coach Mahaffey led the Eagles to the playoffs six consecutive years, the longest playoff streak Rusk High School has ever experienced. He also led the Eagles to the playoffs more than any other coach in Rusk history.

He accumulated a win-loss record of 53-43 while at Rusk.

Coach Mahaffey also coached the golf team, coached girls' varsity softball one season and served as assistant softball coach. The softball team made the playoffs for the past two seasons, advancing to the regional quarterfinals last year. The golf team advanced to regionals last year.

"I have a lot of respect for Coach Mahaffey, which is what made this decision an especially difficult one," Dr. Largent said. "He has done many good things and has had success during his time as the athletic director and head football coach at Rusk ISD. But, at this time, I feel a change is necessary to take our program in a new direction."

Dr. Largent said the search for a new athletic director and head football coach will begin immediately and a replacement will be hired this spring. In the meantime, Dr. Largent said the head coaches of each sport will continue to work with their programs.

"We will also have coaches in charge of our off-season programs and the high school principal and assistant principal will step in as needed to assist with the administrative tasks in the athletic department," he said. "While this was a very difficult decision to make, I am excited about the future of Rusk ISD athletics and look forward to the search process."

Coach Mahaffey's departure from Rusk Eagle athletics marks the second head coach to leave this week. Jacksonville Head Coach Randy Copeland accepted the job of assistant principal of Arp High School Monday.