Olson to coach Ferris girls

Barry Olson is back in basketball.

Ferris’ head boys coach in 2005 will be the Saxons girls coach next year, pending board approval by Spokane Public Schools said Bob Crabb, the Ferris activities coordinator.

“Coaching has been a huge part of my life for 25 years,” Olson said. “It’s something I really enjoy and was looking for a way to fill the void.”

Olson, who had assisted boys programs at Post Falls and Ferris, was caught in the middle of controversy when he replaced Don Van Lierop, whose contract was not renewed following the 2003-2004 season.

Van Lierop subsequently was reinstated a year after Olson coached the Saxons to a GSL title, state berth and 21-6 record.

Following a year away from the sport, Olson got the opportunity to coach girls again when longtime Ferris girls coach Art Rojas resigned.

“We were lucky to have Barry here,” said Crabb.

Olson coached girls basketball 17 years in Colorado, winning three state titles in four finals appearances.

Boys soccer

Mead and Kamiakin will play their State 4A first-round match at noon in Kennewick’s Lampson Stadium, an hour earlier than originally thought.

But the date, site and opponent for Ferris’ state opener are yet to be determined. The Saxons are scheduled to travel to the Tacoma area against the No. 2 seed from playoffs between Districts 3 and 4.

“We’re hoping to play on Tuesday,” Crabb said.

West Central and Southwest District teams are playing Saturday for eight state berths. The Saxons’ opponent will either be Bellarmine Prep or Puyallup, according to WIAA Assistant Executive Director Jim Meyerhoff.