Griff Roth wanted a chance to finish his career coaching the returning seniors at Hauser, and the school has given him that opportunity.
Roth, who led the Jets to a sectional title as the interim coach this winter, has had that tag removed. He plans to coach for one season before retiring.
“I’m real fortunate to have a group of boys that is a great group of kids, and that’s the reason I wanted to be around for another year,” Roth said. “I feel very blessed and fortunate that the people at Hauser would let me finish my career with these boys. They mean a lot to me. I’ve had them for three years. We have a special bond.”
Waldron head coach Nate Cangany has been hired as the junior varsity coach. Hauser’s plan calls for Cangany to step up to the varsity level when Roth retires after next season.
Roth coached both the varsity and junior varsity last season following the resignation of Bob Nobbe because of health concerns.
“It fills a vacant position,” Hauser athletics director Ron Hounshell said. “This year, it will be less of a burden for (Roth). He can concentrate on the varsity, and coach Cangany and (freshman) coach (Doug) Johnson can concentrate on the youth.”
Roth was an assistant coach for 18 years before taking over as interim coach just before the start of the 2016-17 season. He led the Jets to a 16-10 season that included an upset win over Class A No. 6 Oldenburg Academy that gave them the sectional crown.
The sectional title was Hauser’s first since the 2011-12 season.
“I think he earned it,” Hounshell said. “Plus, his loyalty to Hauser over the years being Bob’s assistant, he proved he can handle the commitment.”
The Jets return three senior starters, including leading scorer and rebounder Alex Gross. Point guard Mason Sherman and power forward Justin Compton also return.
Another senior, Andrew Titus, was a starter for most of the year. Brad Paetzel, who also will be a senior, saw extensive action, as well.
“I’m looking forward to the year,” Roth said. “We’re hopeful that things go the way we want them to go. If all that works out, we should have a good year.”
