Hook has previously taught social studies at the middle school and served as varsity wrestling coach. “Mr. Hook brings energy and a strong commitment to our school and community. We are thrilled to welcome him to this new role,” the school board reported in a statement.

Hook is a graduate of Twin Lakes High School in Monticello where he was a member of the wrestling team and advanced twice to semi-state competition. He has led the Winamac wrestlers since 2014.

After high school he attended and earned his bachelor’s degree in social sciences at the University of Northern Iowa. He continued his education at Ball State to receive his master’s in administration.

Interim principal Mike Kelley has served as principal at WCHS since the resignation of Jeremy Tucker in February.

Hendryx, a 1980 WCHS graduate, returns to his home town after five seasons coaching at neighboring Knox High School where he compiled a 42-17 win-loss record.

The EPCS board noted in its statement that “Hendryx has been recognized at the state level for his impact not only on his past teams, but also on his school and community.”

Hendryx brings a 217-93 record in 27 seasons of coaching that includes one state championship, two semi-state championships, and sectional wins at three different schools. He has coached at Carroll and Northwestern, as well as at Knox.

Hendryx will become Winamac’s fifth varsity head football coach, succeeding Craig Barr, who coached the Warriors the past three seasons. The new coach grew up in the Winamac football program where his father, Jack, served as the team’s defensive coordinator for over 30 years.

Also at the school board meeting, Lexi Swartzell was hired as the elementary school’s new social worker. She taught fourth grade at EPES last year.

The board also accepted the resignations of high school secretary Jessica Griffin and elementary school instructional assistant Karen Gudeman.