It's official: Fatzinger is new Central Catholic boys basketball coach

Just minutes ago, Mike Kopp, Central Catholic's athletic director sent a release to make it official.

Former Parkland coach Rich Fatzinger is the Vikings' new boys basketball coach.

Kopp's comment : "Rich is someone with a great deal of basketball coaching experience but more importantly has a background as an educational leader and administrator that gave him a decided edge over the many qualified candidates who also applied for the position. I look forward to working with Rich. I know he will enhance the proud tradition of Viking basketball.''

Then in a phone conversation, Kopp said: "It was a very difficult decision. In my eight years in this position, we've never had so many qualified coaches apply for a job. We interviewed five or six others and had contact with about 10 overall. We had some excellent candidates."

Kopp said that Fatzinger's experience as a coach and educator was what set him apart.

As Parkland's girls basketball coach, Fatzinger went head-to-head against Kopp's Vikettes teams for 12 years.

"He always handled himself well, as a professional," Kopp said. "He always had great respect for the game. He never went crazy on officials. He always got the most out of his kids. I was always impressed with him."

Kopp acknowledged Jim Rodgers, the team's interim head coach last season after the forced resignation of Kyle Kern at midseason. Rodgers also filled in admirably for Kern during the 2007-08 season when Kern had heart surgery.

"Jim was such a positive influence on our kids and did a good job for us and I know many of the kids wanted him to continue," Kopp said. "Rich's experience as an educator was the edge he had. It was a tough decision, but at the same time, we're excited about moving forward."

Fatzinger was introduced to the kids at 8:15 this morning. We'll talk to Rich later and have a story in the Tuesday edition of The Morning Call.

FROM KEITH GROLLER