This just in: Olympic College just hired James Ritchie to coach
the men’s soccer team.
Ritchie’s an assistant with the Kitsap Pumas. That gives the Pumas
two assistants in the NWAACC. Andrew Chapman, head coach at
Peninsula CC, also works with the Pumas.
Here’s an interview with Ritchie when the Pumas were kicking things off. Ritchie’ s also currently coaching the Pumas U17 Academy team. We’ve also heard that Ritchie is in the running for the South Kitsap boys soccer position. If he lands that one, he’s going to be one busy Scotsman.
The Scotsman is an interesting guy and well respected by the Pumas’ ownership group. The folks in the soccer community who don’t know him are going to like him. Here’s a video with James talking to GOALKitsap.com.
* OC’s also close to naming a new volleyball coach. They’ve got some excellent candidates from within the community, said athletic director Barry Janusch.
* Don’t know if you’ve picked up on it, but the Northwest
Athletic Association of Community Colleges cut 10 percent of the
schedules for its member schools this year to help with the
challenging economic times. Basketball teams, for instance, are
playing 26 games instead of 23, this season.
You might also notice that OC is playing matinee doubleheaders on
Saturdays. Instead of the usual 5 p.m. (women) and 7 p.m. (men)
start times, they’re playing at 2 p.m. (women) and 4 p.m. (men).
From a marketing standpoint, I’m not sure that’s a good idea. Then
again, OC doesn’t do a lot to attract crowds anymore. They throw
the ball up and let ‘em play. I’m surprised they even charge
admission.
They used to have halftime shoots and give away sodas or pizza.
They don’t even sell popcorn anymore.
Too bad they can’t get that place packed. It’s the best homecourt
advantage in the NWAACC when it’s rocking.
The Rangers are home tonight. Next home games are Saturday against
Edmonds. Game times, I repeat, are 2 p.m. and 4 p.m.
* You want to follow the NWAACC? Here’s the link to the conference Web site, where you’ll find roster, standings, scores and schedules.
