For Eric McIlquham, a fresh start in Waynesboro coincided perfectly with lifes ever-changing agenda.

Appointed as the new athletic director of the district by the Waynesboro Area School Board on Friday, McIlquham leaves behind a prestigious coaching career at the University of Alabama for the small-town atmosphere that surrounds his new position.

For the 42-year-old who grew up on a farm in Massachusetts, the transition has been a long time coming.

My wife (Sharon) was born and raised in Pittsburgh and we have several relatives that live in Hagerstown, so weve been talking about moving to the area for quite some time, McIlquham said. After I found out about the position, I put a resume in, went through an interview and then found out I got the job. Its a new chapter in life and Im looking forward to getting started.

McIlquham officially takes over as the districts athletic director on July 15, replacing Dan McLaughlin, who had held the position since 1997 before retiring last month. His salary will be $72,000 per year.

While grateful for the opportunity to serve as the Crimson Tides head swimming and diving coach since 2003, the dedication required of McIlquham to oversee an NCAA Division I program left little family time for the father of two, son Brenner, 6, and daughter Breanna, 4.

With coaching in college for the last 20 years, Ive missed out on a lot of time with my family, McIlquham, who has also coached at Virginia and West Virginia, said. Growing up on a farm, I know what its like to be in a small town. Waynesboro reminded me a lot of my hometown and Im excited to raise my kids in that type of atmosphere.

Moving forward

Despite the decision bringing an end to his coaching career during which he was also the head swimming coach for Egypt in the 2000 Sydney Olympics McIlquhams new position doesnt affect his desire to succeed.

My goal is to develop something that everyone in Waynesboro can be proud of, McIlquham said. My first priority is to sit down and meet with the head coaches and let them know that we have to attack this process as a team. Im not coming in here to coach their teams, but Im willing to do everything I can to help them succeed.

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Eric McIlquham excited for new role as Waynesboro's athletic director