Davis headed to Kaplan

KAPLAN -- During his 20-plus years of coaching, the idea of working at Kaplan always intrigued Jeff Davis.

“I had interviewed there three times over the years,” said Davis.

Well, it appears the fourth time is the charm. The stars have aligned for Davis, who interviewed with KHS principal Laura Lebeouf last week, to walk through the door on which he had knocked for all those years.

Davis, who served as head basketball coach at North Vermilion last year, will take the same job at Kaplan. Davis, who is certified as a special education teacher, will replace Vincent Hicks, who is not certified as a teacher in that area.

“When the job came open (this time),” said Davis, “I was really interested.

“I am glad to be here.”

Davis’ happiness with his new job comes on a couple of levels. First, he takes over a team that finished last season with a playoff berth. The Pirates also return four of five starters.

“I think,” said Davis this could be one of the best Kaplan teams in 15 years.”

Davis said he also relishes the idea of reuniting with former colleagues, such as Lebeouf and new Kaplan head football coach Brent Indest, both of whom worked with Davis at Abbeville.

“When you work with someone,” said Lebeouf, “for such a long period of time, you build a level of trust.

“You know people are going to be accountable and that they are going to have high expectations.”

Davis, who will also work with the track program, said he plans to meet with his new team later this week.

“I am not coming in to change anything,” said Davis. “I am sure we will work on some things.”

The process has proved a quick one, but Davis is pleased.

“I am glad I was able to pursue it and get it,” said Davis. “I think it is a good fit.

“It is a challenge that I am really looking forward to.”