West Valley Taps Mclaughlin Aide Trout, Former Eastern Lineman, Attains First Head Coaching Job

Tim Trout, who has coached with Mike McLaughlin since 1992, has been named the new football coach at West Valley High School.

Trout, 30, started with Mead while student teaching in 1992 and moved with McLaughlin to Mt. Spokane when that school opened last fall.

“This is realy exciting. It’s what I’ve always wanted to do,” said Trout, a science and physical education teacher. “It just all fell into place. … It’s a matter of being in the right place at the right time. I’m fortunate to have the opportunity.”

Trout was an offensive lineman for Ed Troxel at Kennewick High, graduating in 1986. He played center at Eastern Washington University.

“He’s young. He’s a go-getter. He’s got a plan,” West Valley athletic director Wayne McKnight said. “We’re really excited about it.”

Trout replaces longtime coach Steve Kent, who resigned after back-to-back 2-7 seasons put his 13-year career mark at 50-66-4.

“We’re going to be about 50-50 run and pass,” Trout said. “To be a successful football team, you have to run and you have to be able to stop the run… . The key right now is to get the kids to believe in themselves and teach them some football.”

McKnight said six of 43 candidates were interviewed.

Gonzaga Prep has narrowed its search for a replacement for long-time football coach Don Anderson to two men. The unnamed finalists will interview Thursday afternoon.

Cheney is still cutting its list to replace another veteran coach, Tom Oswald.

Dale Ethridge has resigned after leading Central Valley to the State 4A wrestling championship. He is planning to teach and coach in Venezuela.

Bob Finn resigned as girls basketball coach at University High School. Finn coached the Titans for five years.

U-Hi is also looking for a new volleyball coach. Mike Welch resigned after two years.

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