Burchfield stepped down from his head coaching position last week, resigning with a career mark of 45-29. Under his watch, the Spartans won three Southwestern Buckeye League Buckeye Division championships and made three consecutive playoff appearances for the first time in school history.
The Spartans also won their first playoff game under Burchfield, in 2008.
“I was never in this to set longevity records,” Burchfield said. “I wanted to help right the ship here at Waynesville, and with the help of so many hard-working people, we did just that.
“I told the players that I was starting to enjoy the days off as much as I am the days with them, and to be fair to everyone involved, they deserve someone who can give them 110 percent, every day.”
Burchfield also felt that a change in leadership could boost to the program.
“After seven years, over 600 off-season weight room sessions, 100-plus two-a-days, 74 weekly practice schedules and 74 pregame speeches, I think the players’ ears are becoming dull to what I have to say,” Burchfield said. “It’s an opportune time to get a fresh voice, with new ideas in the primary leadership role.”
Waynesville Athletic Director Tim Gabbard accepted the decision and said the Spartans won’t rush to replace Burchfield.
“Coach Burchfield has done a good job and we hate to lose him,” Gabbard said. “He’s built a great program and got things rolling. He’s a family man and wants to spend more time with his family and we respect that.
“The job is now opened up. We’ll see who applies for the position and hope to finalize interviews by the second week in January.”
Whoever Waynesville chooses to replace Burchfield, they will have some big shoes to fill. But, Burchfield feels the pieces are in place for bigger and better things in the Spartans’ future.
“I feel very proud of what we have accomplished,” Burchfield said. “Spartan football has become exciting to watch. It has encouraged many to participate, at all levels and it has once again become a rallying point for the community.
“I am also excited for the future, with what we leave for the next regime. Everything is in place for the winning ways to continue.”
Contact this reporter at (513) 696-4526 or shayes@coxohio.com.
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