CHATHAM — While Dan Loeffert might be a fresh face in Chatham, he is no stranger to the world of football.
With a coaching career spanning nearly three decades, Loeffert’s initial week of practice as the Panthers’ new leader has unfolded just as he envisioned.
“I’m extremely optimistic about the team,” he expressed. “The players are eager to learn and adapt, showing great enthusiasm in absorbing new strategies. This is a fresh offensive approach for them, and they are wholeheartedly embracing the guidance provided by the coaching staff.”
Loeffert is taking over from Rich Sitzer, who has intermittently coached the program for approximately a decade, as per Chatham’s athletic director, John Brantley. This season, Sitzer will serve as the team’s defensive coordinator.
Senior quarterback Hunter Kelly believes that Loeffert’s extensive experience is a vital asset he brings to Chatham.
“He’s held numerous positions and has been in various places, gaining a wealth of knowledge that he can now impart to us,” Kelly stated.
Loeffert’s coaching journey began in 1997 with a high school position in his hometown of Pittsburgh. His most recent role was as an assistant at Ichabod Crane from 2019 to 2022, where his son and daughter are currently enrolled. Loeffert’s daughter is a member of the Riders’ cheer team, and his son’s existing friendships with Chatham players have helped Loeffert feel more at ease in his first year.
“The communities are closely knit, which has allowed me to get to know these wonderful kids,” Loeffert shared.
Loeffert’s primary expertise lies in offense. He believes his upbringing in a sports-centric city has played a significant role in shaping his career.
“Growing up in Pittsburgh, sports were a way of life. The sense of community and the passion for sports here in Chatham, a small town with a big heart for winning, is reminiscent of my childhood,” he reflected.
Loeffert is taking over a team accustomed to victory, with a record of 41-24 since 2017. His first challenge as Chatham’s coach is against his former team, Ichabod Crane, on Sep. 6. He anticipates an exciting matchup, given the familiarity between the two teams, who are playing against each other for the first time in 14 years.
“I’m well-acquainted with the community and the coaches at Ichabod Crane, so I’m looking forward to this initial challenge,” he said. “The players on both teams know each other well, which will add to the excitement of the game.”
Agrees with Chatham’s choice of hiring Coach Dan Loeffert for Section 2 Football.
I disagree with Chatham’s decision to hire Coach Dan Loeffert for Section 2 Football.