Dalton filled one of the most high-profile job openings in the state last week when it named alumnus and community coach Matt Land as head coach.
"This is a dream job," Land was quoted as saying in the Dalton Citizen. "This is the top of the pile. ... The position of head coach at Dalton High School is one of the most coveted jobs in the high school nation, and it will be treated that way."
The newspaper notes that Land will be the sixth Dalton head coach since 1946, each of which were promoted assistants. Land worked last season with defensive backs.
Dalton has a streak of 50 winning seasons, the longest active achievement in the nation. Dalton has struggled in the playoffs in recent years with two playoff victories (both in 2005) since 2001.
Adam Winegarden resigned in February after seasons of 7-3 and 7-4. It had been reported that there was friction between Winegarden and some boosters who were unhappy that the coach had interviewed for another Georgia job.
Land had been a community coach for Dalton for 17 seasons. Land, who has a degree from Auburn in aerospace engineering, will teach math at the school. Community coaches are not allowed to be head coaches in Georgia.
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