Coach Mapel Retires

     Chillicothe's coaching ranks have been shaken up with the announced retirement of Dave Mapel, who has served as Head Baseball Coach and Assistant Football Coach. Mapel has spent 32 years in education, including the last 29 years at Chillicothe. Maple has accepted a position as Clubhouse Manager at Green Hills Golf Course.
     Mapel says the economy was one of the factors involved in the decision. Mapel pointed to cuts in education such as no raises for three years, losing the career ladder program and the prospect of paying more into retirement next year.
     Working with the Chillicothe staff and students is what made the decision difficult, said Mapel. "The kids in the classroom. on the football field, on the wrestling mat, on the baseball field: obviously that's been a joy and a way for me to stay involved in athletics. It's been a real joy."

     Mapel has served as head baseball coach since the program began in 1997, with 6 winning seasons and one conference championship, but no district championships. He has also served as an assistant football coach under former Head Coach Bob Fairchild and current Head Coach Phil Willard, most recently as the offensive coordinator for the last several years. Coach Willard said a decision on assistant coaches and duties would come later in the year.
     Mapel will take over his duties as Clubhouse Manager at Green Hills Golf Course. Mapel has worked summers at the golf course since it opened 17 years ago. "It's something I sincerely love" said Mapel.