Strickland close to naming coordinator

PHIL STRICKLAND Gaffney football coach Phil Strickland is moving to closer to selecting a new offensive coordinator.

"It should be soon," Strickland said.

The coach said several of his current assistants and assistants from other football staffs are under consideration.

Strickland said he's looking for a coordinator who shares his offensive philosophy and will blend well with his current assistants.

"I want somebody who believes in what we believe in," he said.

It's the second time in as many years that Strickland has looked for a new offensive coordinator.

Earlier this month, former Gaffney High offensive coordinator Charlie Patterson accepted the head coaching position at Hanahan High School.

Patterson served as the team's offensive coordinator for one season.

He replaced longtime coordinator Greg Lawson, who left last year to become head coach at Laurens High School.

Strickland wasn't surprised Patterson left the staff.

"He obviously had the itch to become a head coach again," Strickland said. "He really deserves this opportunity."

Patterson was the head at West Florence, where he posted a 3-19 mark.

The move to Hanahan High School and the Charleston area also allows Patterson to be closer to his wife's family, and to Goose Creek High School, one of Patterson's assistant coaching spots, Strickland said.

Patterson takes over a 2A program that finished 7-5 this season.