Changes For Ewu Football Staff
Eastern Washington University football coach Mike Kramer announced several changes concerning his staff Thursday, hiring Portland State assistant Jesse Williams to coach the defensive line while promoting longtime EWU assistant J.D. Sollars in a move that ultimately gives Kramer more control of the offense.
Williams, a 1992 graduate of Sonoma State in northern California, coached the defensive line at NCAA Division II Portland State the last two seasons.
Sollars, entering his 16th season on the EWU coaching staff, the last four as offensive coordinator, becomes assistant head coach and academic coordinator. The 1981 EWU graduate will also serve as linebackers coach, replacing John Zamberlin, who left to become defensive coordinator at the University of Richmond.
Kramer, who questioned Sollars’ play-calling as the team struggled to a 4-7 record last season, will replace Sollars as tight ends coach and have the final say in calling plays. Kramer will also coach running backs. Offensive assistants Jim McElwain (quarterbacks/receivers) and Paul Wulff (line) will have play-calling input, Kramer said.
Spring practices open April 18.
Cougar golfer sixth
In Santa Barbara, Calif., Washington State’s David Putney shot a firstround 68 Thursday and shot a second-round 75 to finish tied for sixth at 143 with one round left in the UC Santa Barbara/Pacific Coast Intercollegiate Invitational.
Justin Lyon, whose 7-under par score placed him in first place after the first round, finished with a tworound total of 145. He is tied for 10th heading into today’s final round.
The Cougars are in 18th place out of 23 teams.Charlie Wi of Cal leads the tournament with 140 and San Jose State is in the lead with a team total of 576.
EWU assistant leaves
Eastern Washington assistant volleyball coach Carrie Couturier-Yerty has accepted a similar position at the University of Arizona. She began her duties there this week.
CdA Resort course to open
The Coeur d’Alene Resort Golf Course will open for its fifth season on Saturday on permanent greens.
Openings remain for the Camp Automotive Open Best-Ball Tournament this weekend at The Fairways. Cost is $70 per two-man team, plus green fees. Info: 747-8418.
Ski race scheduled
Ski racers are expected to hit speeds of 85 mph during the Evergreen Cup Super G and Downhill Sunday through Wednesday at 49 Degrees North.
The event will feature 13-15-year-olds from six states.