By Donald Heath

Special for the Effingham Herald

ECHS held a news conference Thursday to announce Brad Thompson as the school’s next softball coach.

Thompson replaced Jane Trzaska, who resigned in December.

In 16 seasons at Vidalia High School, Thompson compiled a 387-155 record with five region championships and 15 state tournament appearances.

He took eight of his teams to the Elite Eight, four went on to the Final Four and twice the Indians were state runner ups.

Rebels athletic director Matt Huntley said he received 10 applications for the position. Five were interviewed.

“I took last year off, but I missed (coaching). I had been part of a team since I was five years old,” Thompson said. “Some friends suggested (the ECHS opening) so I reached out to (Huntley). The administration was awesome. I liked the facilities. I thought, ‘This is a place I can enjoy.’ ”

Thompson will inherit a strong program. The Rebels finished 18-8 last season, won the Region 2-AAAAAA title and advanced to the second round of state.