Kevin Shamblin has been hired as Slippery Rock High School's wrestling head coach. Submitted photo

SLIPPERY ROCK — Kevin Shamblin finds himself in a new place as head wrestling coach at Slippery Rock High School.

When it comes to the sport itself, he is quite familiar.

Shamblin was hired to replace Denton Zeronas — who resigned after last season — earlier this month. He’s been head coach of the SR junior high wrestling program for six years.

“I’ve been in and out of the youth program here for the past 10 years or so,” Shamblin said. “I applied for the job after Denton left, and I’m comfortable with these kids. I’ve already coached most of them for a few years.

“We have six to eight freshmen and sophomores on the team I’m very familiar with. I know these kids are ready to make an impact.”

Shamblin admitted “talks did take place” about Slippery Rock wrestling consolidating with the Butler High School program. But the Rockets’ wrestling numbers were solid enough to proceed without a co-op.

“We have 18 kids signed up right now with a few more likely to join up once football season ends,” Shamblin said. “Athletes take one sport at a time. I understand that.”

Aden Shay and Max Victorio are the lone seniors on the wrestling team. Shay has been wrestling since elementary school. Victorio began as a freshman.

“Those guys are leaders,” Shamblin said. “We’ve got some regional and state contenders this year, but the individuals will carve their own paths. We want to develop responsible citizens in life. That’s most important.”

Chris Caton and Mike Bromley will be Shamblin’s assistants.