Washington’s search for a new head football coach is expected to come to an end next week, says principal Michael Swinson.

“What we’re looking to do is, probably within the next week, we can make a decision,” he said Friday afternoon.

Interviews for the position took place earlier in the week. Athletics director and defensive coordinator Jon Blank applied for the opening and was interviewed, but names of others who are being considered were not immediately available.

Of the many desirable traits in a football coach, Washington is looking for someone that can not only help the team return to the glory it experienced not too long ago, but also someone that can benefit the entire community.

“With a community like Washington, we’re looking for someone that can take over the team and not only take the team, but take those students and get them academically successful and get them involved with the community,” Swinson said. “A football coach has a huge tie to the community, with the players, and the school itself.

“…Washington is a very good place to be. There are a lot of people that have thrown their hat into the ring, so to speak. We’ve got a lot of good candidates.”

Swinson said the process included a screening beforehand, speaking with the candidate and an evaluation by a committee assembled to help with the search.

Sport Sawyer stepped down as the team’s coach on Nov. 14. The season had already concluded for the Pam Pack, which missed out on the playoffs. The remainder of the staff has been keeping the team together through offseason strength and conditioning as the search was being conducted.