Ex-MCC coach nabs 
 job at Woodstock N.

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Steve Ryan pounced on the opportunity to coach boys basketball at Woodstock North in the same way he hopes his players will get after loose balls next season.

The former McHenry County College men’s basketball coach, who resigned this year after nine years with the Scots, was named the Thunder’s coach when he was approved by the District 200 school board at its meeting Tuesday.

Ryan previously worked at Woodstock High School for two years as sophomore assistant and varsity assistant, then coached at MCC from 2001-10. Joe Conroy resigned May 26 after coaching the Thunder for their inaugural varsity season, and Ryan applied for the job.

“Getting back into high school basketball was a goal of mine,” Ryan said. “I know a lot of the kids and parents. I have that passion and look forward to the challenge.”

North played its first year of varsity sports this year without a senior class. The Thunder went 2-26 this season, winning twice against Woodstock.

“We have to build on how hard the kids have worked so far,” Ryan said. “They’re dedicated, and I want them to come in with a positive attitude.”

North athletic director Nick Kearfott said the school had some exceptional candidates despite having to fill the position quickly.

“Steve stood out with the X’s and O’s and his knowledge,” Kearfott said. “We all felt Steve was the guy to do it. He was the best candidate, and that’s what we wanted, the best candidate, whether he was in the district or not.”

Ryan does work in District 200, teaching physical education at Mary Endres Elementary School in Woodstock.

“This is a great opportunity,” Ryan said. “It was exciting.”