Ephrata chooses Vieland

"We're teachers first and we can't lose sight of that."

The head varsity coaching position is the first for Vieland, an Ohio native who spent the last 11 seasons serving as a Black Knights assistant under first Tom Getz and then Bob Forgrave. Vieland was an offensive line coach through 2006 before being promoted to offensive coordinator last season.

"He comes from a program that's had a lot of success and we think he can take our program to the next level," Ephrata athletic director Tommy Long said.

"He's very student-oriented, very interested in community relations and our youth programs and those are things we were looking for. We're very excited."

School board president Robert E. Miller said he was impressed by Vieland's opening statement in a letter he brought to his interview:

"Football teaches character. I have dedicated my life to making a difference in the lives of young people."

Said Miller, "I was very impressed with his coaching philosophy. We (on the Ephrata Board) view sports as an extension of education. We want our students to learn life educational things on the field."

Long said Vieland was one of 16 applicants when the job was re-opened after former Conestoga Valley coach Jim Cantafio withdrew his name from consideration on Jan. 18. Of the 16, four were interviewed by a six-member committee and two were brought back for second interviews.

Long and Miller said Vieland was to be offered the position last Friday but their meeting was postponed due to a winter storm. Vieland met with the committee Monday afternoon and was offered the position.

"It's a little daunting," Vieland said. "It's a big task ahead but I'm excited."

Getz said that Vieland, who will continue to teach English at Hempfield High, has an ability to communicate that will benefit him as a head coach.

"He's an intelligent young coach, and his ability to get along with players and their parents is one of his strengths," Getz said. "He understands the game and knows how to get his point across."

Vieland grew up in Chardon, Ohio, some 20 miles outside of Cleveland, and was an All-Ohio Second Team selection as a lineman his senior season at Chardon High.

He started on the offensive line for three years at Division III Grove City College and was named to the President's Athletic Conference team.

Vieland replaces Ken Grove, who coached the Mountaineers for the past 18 seasons.

"Coach Grove is a real gentleman and he did a great job," Vieland said. "One of the things that impressed me during the job search was how important football is to the Ephrata community.

"I feel fortunate to be in this situation. It's an honor and a privilege."