As someone that’s been closely affiliated with this program for many years, I can confidently say that the goal is to have the position filled and announced by the end of this month. There is a search/selection committee made up of various members of the UWS community (have not heard specific names). Although I don't know how many individuals have applied, I've been told by people I trust that the number was greater than anticipated. As for interviews, I believe they started last week.
Regarding the various possibilities: if the committee prefers an alumnus to be the next coach, the person with the best "qualifications" as defined by greatest recent success at a high level would be Fred Harbinson. He just finished his 10th season as the President, General Manager, and Head Coach of the Penticton Vees of the BCHL in Canada. Where he has compiled a 382-109-30 record, three Coach of the Year awards -- including this past season-- and, one Canadian Tier II Junior A National Championship. However, I don't think Fred has applied as it would mean trading his current $200,000+ a year salary for something far less than that (more on that shortly). And, since he turned down the opportunity to become Mike Eaves' Associate Head Coach at Wisconsin just a year ago (obviously the right decision), it would be quite surprising to say the least if he applied for this position.
So, the next most qualified alum, based on both longevity and success at a higher level, is probably Dave Esse, the current head coach at Cloquet High School just down Interstate 35. He's been there for over 15 years and has at least a couple of state tournament appearances. His teams are always some of the most disciplined and prepared around and they play as hard as any. He’s compiled a very good record over the years despite not always having the same depth of talent as some of the other schools in his section. And, I can say with confidence that he has definitely applied. As for the rumor involving current Duluth Denfeld High School head coach Kevin Smalley becoming Dave's assistant if he gets the job, well, I would guess only Dave and Kevin know if that is true. The only other alumns I know that have applied are current Virginia High School head coach Reed Larson and a couple of other former UWS assistant coaches (they’ve asked to keep their names quiet). Although I haven't heard one way or the other, it's certainly possible that current UWS Women's Head Coach Dan Laughlin has applied as well.
As for the non-alumni candidates, the only one I know of that's applied for sure is Mark Vichorek who’s been mentioned previously in this thread. However, there are obviously many others. Unfortunately, if any of you have followed the budget debates/fights regarding the Wisconsin State University system the last few years, you know that there have been massive cuts to the system budget. This, in combination with the declining enrollment at UWS, has created a true budget crisis at the school, especially in regards to athletics.
It's my understanding that the average salary for a head coach at the other four WIAC schools is above $60,000 and, each of those schools spends, on the high side $40,000 for an assistant to about $15,000 on the low side. Unfortunately, it appears that UWS has decided they can only afford approximately $40,000 - $45,000 for the new head coach and, only about $8,000 for an assistant. Obviously, this doesn't count any possible income from running any camps and such. Still, considering the previous history of success this program has had, this is a truly sad and disappointing commentary on how far things have fallen. Even more importantly, it starkly illustrates the obvious and complete lack of understanding from this administration of what it takes to be competitive in the only sport this university could ever hope to be financially viable. Hopefully, this administration will pull its collective head out of its’ you know what and fund these positions in a far more competitive manner. Otherwise, I know for a fact that, even if certain and very qualified individuals are offered the job, they will end up turning it down.
Two other brief points/corrections. First, in a previous post, “haulin oats” stated: “add in the athletic scholarships UWS hands out and the Wasps could be back in the top 5 in no time”…. Again, I can state with absolute confidence and certainty that UWS does not, nor ever has given any “athletic scholarships” to athletes in any sport they sponsor. Again, considering the current financial situation of the school and, more specifically the athletic department, the absolute absurdity of that statement is beyond words.
Second, in another previous post, “upfan1111” stated in reference to Reed Larson and the recent performance of his Virginia High School team this past season: “Virginia beat Grand Rapids and Moose Lake this year as well”. Unfortunately, even as much as I like and respect Reed as a coach and person, I think even he would be hard pressed to find a way to sell the 8-2 defeat to Grand Rapids as a “win”… My point to “upfan111” being, if you’re going to post on these forums, at least take the time to do the research to ensure you’re as accurate as possible when making specific assertions. Especially, when that info is easily and readily available to you.
Just bring in Chelios, Wilson and Ziemski. Bam. Problem solved. Do I get a consulting fee? I don't know their coaching experience, but they'd be fun as hell to watch! :-D