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The Switzerland of Ohio School District held its inaugural "coaching school" in mid October.
The event, which feature a lineup of speakers aimed at winter sports, was deemed a resounding success.
With spring sports just around the corner, Switzerland of Ohio Schools are planning their spring school for Thursday at Beallsville High School, starting at 6 p.m.
"Coaches are never too old to learn," said Beallsville assistant principal and former Ohio Valley College head baseball coach Bob Crawford. "I am hoping that coaches not only from our district, but from around the area see the list of names we're having (speak) and come out and learn as much as possible."
Crawford attended the event at River and is simply hopeful the spring event goes nearly as well.
"I sure hope we can have the type of success that they had for the first one," Crawford admitted. "I know we have a great list of presenters, all of whom are excited and looking forward to the opportunity to speak."
According to Crawford, upwards of 50 coaches have already signed up, but there's no limit to the number of people who can attend. He also indicated that the event is open to coaches of all age levels and not just high school coaches. Plus, he said student-athletes who wish to attend may do so to hear from the coaches.
"We want the coaches to see what winning programs look like and what you need to do in order for your program to be a winner," Crawford noted. "Every one of the coaches coming to speak believes in a process and fundamentals. I think they can bring that to the table and show these (area) coaches and not just tell them that fundamentals work. You can be successful by doing the little things."
The keynote speaker for the event is Marietta College head baseball coach Brian Brewer, who has led the Pioneers to three NCAA Division III national championships. He's won more than 600 games in his career at his alma mater. All told, his teams have made 13 appearances in the NCAA Tournament.
Prior to returning to Marietta, Brewer spent four seasons as the head coach at John Carroll University.
Muskingum University softball coach Laina Connor, who is set to embark on her first season with the Muskies after being hired in June. A Muskingum graduate, she returns to her alma mater after three seasons at Juniata College in Pennsylvania.
Parkersburg High School track coach Rod O'Donnell, who actually is credited with starting the cross country program at Caldwell High School, will speak to the track coaches in the group.
Along with his time on the prep level, O'Donnell has also coached Rio Grande, Marshall and Kent State. He captured back-to-back state championships with the Big Red and was named West Virginia Coach of the Year by the USTFCCA.
"I've talked with all three speaker and they're very excited to take part in this and share with the other coaches," Crawford said. "All of these coaches have worked hard to achieve the type of success they have had."