Local briefs: Weber State fires Sears

College football: Jody Sears has been fired from Weber State after just two season as coach, the school announced Tuesday.

The former Washington State co-defensive coordinator went 4-19 in his two seasons as head coach of the Wildcats.

Sears came to Weber State in January 2012 after spending three seasons with his alma matter in Pullman. Prior to the WSU job, Sears served as defensive coordinator for Eastern Washington for five seasons.

Weber State finished this season 2-12.

Associated Press

Whitney returns to Dallas lineup

NHL: Former Spokane Chief Ray Whitney returned to the starting lineup for the Dallas Stars after missing five games with a groin injury.

The 41-year-old had an assist Tuesday in the Stars’ 6-3 win over Anaheim, his 1,279th career game. Whitney is in his 21st NHL season, his second with the Stars.

Whitney, who led the Chiefs to the Memorial Cup in 1991, was hurt on Nov. 9. At that point, the left wing had played in all 17 games and was third on the team with seven assists. He is still tied for third with eight.

Associated Press