Former assistant returns to take over Ravens soccer

Spring Hill's Graham named Sheldon's successor

Former assistant returns to take over Ravens soccer Spring Hill's Graham named Sheldon's successor

By Tod Palmer todpalmer@theolathenews.com Olathe Northwest's soccer program didn't go long without a head coach. With the ink barely dry on Mark Sheldon's resignation, the Ravens needed less than two weeks to name Chris Graham the program's third coach. For close observers of the ONW program, the name will carry a familiar ring. Graham spent three years as a varsity assistant coach under Lewis Theobald, who now coaches the University of Central Missouri, and also coached under Sheldon the first year he took over the Ravens. When Spring Hill started a soccer program for the 2007-08 school year, Graham was tapped to get the program going, but he couldn't resist moving back to Northwest when the opportunity arose. "Because of my ties here and my desire to get back to 6A, I decided to put my name in for the job," Graham said. In a perfect world, it'll be the last job for which Graham will interview. That was an important selling point, considering the program just finished its sixth year. ONW's administration wants some stability in the position. "I promised Dr. Poss that I was going to be here for the long haul," Graham said, referring to ONW's principal, Dr. Gwen Poss. "I don't have any aspirations to move up to the college level like Lewis did, and I have a family with two kids and we're pretty stable here in the Olathe area. "I'd love to be able to build a program here and be here for a very long time. As long as they'll have me, I plan on being here." At the same time, taking the Ravens' reins is a daunting proposal for Graham, who started his career as a coach under Terry Hair at Olathe East. "I feel very fortunate that I've had the opportunity to work with three very, very good coaches, but it's also a bit overwhelming to know I'm next in line to try and keep what Lewis and Mark started going," Graham said. To make up for his self-perceived lack of experience, Graham said he'll have to work hard, never asking more of his players than he's willing to give himself. Graham also will expect his ONW players to work hard in the classroom too. Each Wednesday before practice the Ravens will take part in a 30-minute study hall. Graham knows he in for a challenge but also believes it's one he's ready for as he tries to continue building the Northwest programs into powerhouses. He's been invested in the program since the beginning and eventually hopes to take the Ravens to the top.