When it was reported that head football coach David Dean was departing Valdosta State for an offensive coordinator position at Georgia Southern, concern arose among Blazer nation that there was a lack of worthy replacements in the pool of coaching candidates.

Not only did athletic director Herb Reinhard and VSU find a worthy replacement, but they knocked the hiring out of the park. Kerwin Bell, who parted ways with Jacksonville University after nine seasons, was surprisingly available. As soon as he expressed interest in the job, he became a priority.

Reinhard said that Bell was actually the first applicant for the position. Typically coaches with multiple title runs and a decade’s worth of success are not looking for work.

Fortunately for us, Bell was an exception.

On Monday, the school hosted a welcome-gathering for Bell. Citizens from around the area dropped by to introduce themselves to a coach that is prioritizing relationships between the program and its supporters.

Bell brings with him a resume that features not just winning, but winning championships.

That is something that this program is used to; and that is something that Bell promises to continue doing.

Replacing Dean, the winningest coach in school history, is certainly not an easy task. But Bell is the right man for the challenge.

Bell’s introductory press conference was a hit with the local fans and media. The coach lit up the room with a natural charisma that would make even the casual fan excited for next season.

One of Bell’s principal interests is connecting the team with the community. He wants VSU fans to pack the stadium on Saturdays the same way students would in Athens or Gainesville.

Blazers, let’s make it happen.

The Spectator would like to send a warm welcome to coach Bell and his family. We look forward to getting to know you, as well as covering the multitude of wins that will happen under your watch.