This fall will mark the first time in over 25 years that Joe Matheny will not be the head coach of Marietta High's golf team.
Taking the position will be John Doughty, who knows all about the success Matheny has brought to the program.
"Everyone's been telling me that it's hard to replace a legend," Doughty said.
Article Photos
John Doughty
"I'm not looking to replace him. I'm just looking forward to the challenge, and keeping the tradition of Marietta golf. I just want to continue the success."
Doughty's coaching experience includes working under J.D. Seacrest on the Tiger basketball team, head coach of the Marietta softball team, and coach for the Marietta Junior High golf team under Matheny.
Although it will be his first time as a head coach in golf, Doughty is confident his first season can be a successful one.
"Knowing most of the kids are back, I think we can have a great season," Doughty said. "We want to be competitive, and hopefully do well in the sectional and district."
Doughty is a graduate of Miller High and Muskingum College, where he played basketball. He said basketball is his main sport, but played golf as a junior and senior in high school, and has enjoyed playing ever since.
The primary players returning for the Tigers will be Jared Hammons, last year's East Central Ohio League Player of the Year, as well as Nathan Matheny and Joe Broughton.
Marietta is coming off an ECOL championship season, and Doughty hopes to make it far in the state tournament.
August 6 will be the first official practice for Doughty and his team, and the first match will be that weekend.
There will be a golf outing on July 28 at Marietta Country Club at 8 a.m. to benefit the Marietta High golf and basketball teams.
