CHARLESTON -- A familiar face will be back on the sidelines at Charleston as Dan Kesselring has been named the new head football coach for the Bluejays.
Kesselring was previously the head coach at Charleston from 1992-1999, compiling a career record of 44-39.
"I missed the varsity level," said Kesselring, who had coached the Charleston junior high program the last two years while also serving as the athletic director. "The position became open and I went for it. When Brent Anderson left, I said then I would like to take the job back."
In his first stint as head coach, Kesselring's teams were no stranger to success, making the playoffs every year from 1993-1997. In 1996 Charleston finished 11-1, losing in the quarterfinals to Country Day 39-38. Kesselring stepped down in 1999 and was replaced by Anderson who coached the Bluejays through 2004.
"I started on my master's degree and I thought I couldn't devote the time and energy that was needed at the time," said Kesselring of his decision to step down in 1999. "In addition, I had my second child and it was a little too much too handle along with my coaching duties."
Kesselring takes over for Al Marshall who stepped down after two seasons. Last season the Bluejays went through an injury-plagued 3-6 season, failing to make the playoffs for the second-consecutive season.
"I would like for us to start winning some district championships again," said Kesselring. "Also I would like to take home a conference title. Getting in the playoffs is what Charleston football should shoot for every single year. The kids know me and they know what to expect. We are going to be a disciplined football team that will give 100 percent effort out on the field. I will accept nothing less."
Charleston will have a full 10-game schedule in 2007 as the Bluejays have added Portageville. With the added game Charleston will play only four home games in 2007 and will play six games on the road.