Sunlake searching for new athletic director

Matt McDermott helped open Sunlake High two years ago as the school's first athletic director.

After completing his master's degree at Saint Leo University in educational leadership, McDermott has accepted an offer to become an assistant principal at Wesley Chapel. He officially begins his new post Sept. 15. 

In doing so, McDermott must step aside as athletic director and the varsity wrestling coach.

"It's a great step in my career," McDermott said. "Unfortunately, I have to give up the AD and coaching aspect of my job."

McDermott spent the past two years at Sunlake working in graduation enhancement. Prior to his arrival, he spent 11 years at Zephyrhills where he coach wrestling and football and taught honors biology and AP environmental science.

McDermott said he expects his vacancy to draw a lot of interest and expects at least three internal candidates. Also available is former Land O'Lakes athletic director Chuck Moehle, now teaching at Anclote.

"I feel bad, I love my kids at Sunlake and Zephyrhills," McDermott said. "I will definitely miss it."

-- IZZY GOULD, Times staff writer