NEW BERLIN — James Dambacher stepped down as the football coach at New Berlin on Monday, June 9, for personal reasons.
Last fall, the Pretzels acquired their most wins and first playoff appearance since 2015, finishing 7-3 in Dambacher’s second season.
Dambacher said he will return to his alma mater to assisting the defense at Auburn under coach Ryan Gardner, a role he previously held before going to New Berlin.
“I really enjoyed my time and had a lot of support from the players and the communities,” Dambacher said, also referring to the Pretzels’ co-op with Waverly and Franklin.
A press release provided by New Berlin athletic director Dillon Binkley said the search process is already underway and a new coach will be recommended at the June 26 board meeting.
It also announced that Neil Holderread has been tabbed as the next boys basketball coach, pending board approval on June 26.
“Coach Holderread emphasizes discipline, respect and responsibility — core values that align perfectly with the mission of our athletics program,” the statement said.
It added, “Coach Holderread has already begun leading summer workouts and preparing the team for a strong and competitive season ahead.”
Holderread replaces Blake Lucas, who left to become the athletic director and boys basketball coach at Pawnee.
This article originally appeared on State Journal-Register: New Berlin football coach resigns after ending 10-year playoff drought
Reporting by Bill Welt, Springfield State Journal- Register / State Journal-Register
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